Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles announced that a potentially severe storm, including lightning, is expected to impact the start of the Indianapolis 500. Fans may be asked to leave the grandstands by 11:15 a.m. if lightning approaches, and all on-track activities will be halted. The race start time may be delayed, with track drying possibly beginning between 2:30-3 p.m. Fans will be allowed to leave and re-enter the Speedway, and updates will be provided through various channels to ensure safety.
With rain in the forecast for the 108th Indy 500, Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles stated that decisions regarding the race will be made within hours of the green flag. Despite a 61 percent chance of rain, Boles remains hopeful for improvement and emphasized that efforts will be made to hold the race on Sunday, even if it means waiting until later in the day. The track has rented the NASCAR Air Titan system to help dry the surface if needed. A crowd of 345,000 is expected, with fewer than 5,000 grandstand seats remaining.
IMS President Doug Boles discusses the extensive preparations and protocols in place for potential storms ahead of the 108th Indianapolis 500. Safety for fans and drivers is a top priority, with plans to use message boards and mass text alerts to keep everyone informed. The race has historically been postponed or shortened due to weather, but Boles is committed to doing everything possible to hold the race on Sunday, even if it means waiting until later in the day. The track drying system has been improved to reduce downtime, and continuous monitoring of weather patterns, especially from Terre Haute, will guide decision-making.
