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By Lydia Mee
Sports Contributing Writer
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In a turn of events that could significantly impact this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Montreal area. As of 10:15 a.m., the watch replaced an earlier weather statement, signaling worsening conditions that could pose a threat to the track events scheduled at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
The forecast anticipates a perilous mix of weather conditions which started on Thursday afternoon, stretching into the Grand Prix weekend. Predictions suggest up to 40 millimeters of rain, potentially exceeding 50 mm during thunderstorms. This substantial rainfall raises concerns about flash flooding and water accumulation on roads, which could complicate the race preparations.
Despite the impending downpours, the temperature in Montreal is expected to soar, with highs reaching 28 degrees Celsius, feeling more like 35 C with humidity.
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Reports of heavy rain and hail have begun to emerge ahead of the first Free Practice session which is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Friday, underscoring the volatile conditions that teams and drivers must navigate. Such challenging weather conditions are not new for the Montreal circuit, which is notorious for its dramatic wet-weather races that often lead to unexpected race dynamics and surprise podium finishers.
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Although the chances of rain decrease slightly by Free Practice 2 later today, racers will still face a 50% chance of nighttime showers, which could wash away any rubber laid down during the day, fundamentally altering grip levels for Saturday's sessions.
Race day itself presents slightly more optimistic conditions with a reduced likelihood of rain at 54% and slightly warmer temperatures. However, the persistent southwesterly winds and fluctuating weather could play a significant role in the day's outcomes.
Teams and drivers are bracing for a challenging race weekend, adjusting their strategies to accommodate rapidly changing conditions.
At this stage, there is no confirmation that the first two practice sessions today will be cancelled, however, with the heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hail, it seems unlikely that it will go ahead. Some fans have shared to social media that it has been cancelled, writing:
"Apparently the day is fully canceled I'm on the subway and they're not letting anyone on to go to the circuit"
Although on the other hand, others have reported that they have been told by race officials that Free Practice 1 is still going ahead. It might be that the FIA will decide to delay the start of the practice session rather than cancel it all together. We will await confirmation.
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