How long will rain delay Daytona 500 in 2024?

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The commencement of the 2024 NASCAR season was eagerly anticipated for Sunday, but it appears that Mother Nature had alternative plans in store. The Daytona 500, serving as the inaugural event of the season, has been unavoidably postponed until Monday due to persistent rain plaguing the area. This echoes the narrative of the previous year, where rain played a significant role in the races, establishing a recurring theme for the season opener.

This scenario of weather interfering with the season’s outset is not unfamiliar. Looking back to 2021, despite forecasts predicting showers, the race managed to kick off on time. However, by the 16th lap, a major crash involving 16 cars prompted race officials to halt proceedings, resulting in a delay lasting five hours and 40 minutes.

As of now, the Daytona 500’s fate hangs in the balance, with updates on its status pouring in:

Daytona 500 Weather Updates
(All times Eastern)

Sunday, Feb. 18
9:26 a.m.: The official announcement arrives— the Daytona 500 is rescheduled for Monday due to inclement weather, with a tentative start time of 4 p.m.

9:15 a.m.: Reports indicate that the track drying process may take anywhere from 120 to 180 minutes under the current conditions. The window for the race to proceed narrows, suggesting a start time of around 8 p.m., provided the rain ceases by approximately 5 p.m.

9:08 a.m.: The forecast for Daytona Beach remains grim, with projections indicating a prolonged spell of rain extending into late evening.

Saturday, Feb. 17
6:12 p.m.: The rain’s impact is already felt as the Xfinity Series’ United Rentals 300, initially scheduled for Saturday, is postponed to Monday at 11 a.m. ET. Efforts to expedite the race on Saturday were thwarted by the persistent rain.

12:30 p.m.: While rain has yet to commence in Daytona Beach, the likelihood of its arrival is imminent, with a 90 percent chance in the afternoon and a forecast of heavy rainfall overnight, potentially accumulating up to 1 inch.

The forecast for Sunday remains equally bleak, with anticipated precipitation ranging between 1 and 2 inches, coupled with the possibility of heavy rainfall at intervals.

 

Daytona 500 Weather Forecast
National Weather Service

  • Chance of rain (Saturday): 90 percent
  • Chance of rain (Saturday night): 100 percent
  • Chance of rain (Sunday): 90 percent
  • Chance of rain (Sunday night): 50 percent

Sunday’s forecast as of Feb. 17: “Showers. The rain could be heavy at times. High near 60. North wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.”