Unfortunately, the Masters has become quite familiar with weather delays in recent years. Jon Rahm‘s 2023 victory was marred by consistent rain during both the second and third rounds. Last year, Scottie Scheffler‘s path to his second green jacket began with a three-hour delay due to bad weather. So, perfect weather is rarely guaranteed at Augusta National in April, despite the pristine imagery of blooming azaleas and manicured fairways we see in promotional materials. Just look at Monday’s practice round.
The week began with a concerning announcement from tournament officials. “Due to expected inclement weather and safety concerns, patron gates will not open as scheduled for Monday’s practice round.” This disappointing news left many fans forlorn. Stars like Rory McIlroy had to delay their practice sessions as thunderstorms hit Augusta. Fortunately, officials later provided a reprieve, opening gates at 8 a.m. as the weather briefly improved. This early disruption has golf fans wondering if we’re in for yet another rain-affected Masters Tournament. The forecast suggests we might be in for another weather battle at Augusta National.
Thursday’s opening round looks promising, with mostly sunny conditions starting the day. However, clouds will gradually increase as the afternoon progresses. Temperatures should reach a comfortable 75 degrees. Wind might become a factor for the afternoon groups. Gusts could reach up to 21 mph by day’s end. But overall, players should enjoy relatively favorable conditions to begin their Masters campaigns. However, the real concern comes on Friday.
Accuweather predicts an 84 percent chance of rain throughout the second round with a 17 percent chance of thunderstorms. The rain is expected to come in sporadic showers rather than one constant downpour. Wind will pick up slightly with gusts potentially reaching 25 mph. Temperatures will remain moderate with a high of 70 degrees.
Golf – The Masters – Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, U.S. – April 11, 2024 General view as a caddie holds the flag on the 18th hole during the first round REUTERS/Mike Segar
The weekend forecast offers much more optimism. Saturday should bring sunshine with minimal cloud cover. No rain is expected, and winds will decrease to around 18 mph gusts. This sets up perfectly for moving day. Sunday’s forecast looks even better. Winds will diminish further to only 15 mph gusts with a high of 71 degrees. Not a drop of rain is expected for the final round.
Augusta National has a long history of weather disruptions during the Masters week.
Historical rain pattern shows Augusta’s springtime vulnerability
You see, six of the past seven tournaments have experienced some form of weather delay. The 2023 edition was particularly challenging. Multiple suspensions were required as consistent rains battered the course for days. Three large pine trees even toppled near the 17th tee, narrowly missing spectators.
The weather has forced Monday finishes five times in tournament history. The last occurrence was back in 1983. Augusta’s spring climate makes it particularly vulnerable to passing storm systems. April typically brings changeable conditions to eastern Georgia. The tournament often finds itself caught between winter’s last gasps and spring’s warming trend.
Will we see players donning rain gear again this year? Friday certainly looks problematic. But if forecasts hold, we should witness a spectacular weekend finale under Georgia sunshine. The 2025 Masters might just follow the perfect script – early drama from the elements, followed by ideal conditions when the green jacket is on the line.
The post The Masters 2025: Will Rain Wreak Havoc at Augusta National? Round 1 Weather Update Explored appeared first on EssentiallySports.
