Anticipated for the approaching Emilia Romagna Grand Prix is a relentless onslaught of turbulent weather this weekend, as the Italian region braces itself for heavy downpours and flood alerts.
The Imola Regional Weather Service, raising the alarm to its maximum extent, has issued a red-level rain warning. Meteorologists have foreseen an alarming volume of nearly 160mm of precipitation on Tuesday, followed by an additional 110mm on Wednesday.
🌧️⚠️ Imola’s regional weather service raises the highest rain warning & issues flood alerts, casting doubts over the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
The wild weather poses a significant threat, jeopardizing the race’s smooth execution. #ImolaRain #F1GrandPrix #EmiliaRomagnaGP pic.twitter.com/lJdGuFFbig
— David Mckanzie (@jonmurphi2) May 16, 2023
As the weekend approaches, a respite from the rain is anticipated, but the qualifying session of the Emilia Romagna race on Saturday afternoon could face a new wave of showers and a potential storm.
Recent devastating floods in the Emilia-Romagna region claimed two lives and displaced hundreds, yet the Imola track emerged unscathed, as confirmed by a spokesperson.
Amidst the looming risk of floods and landslides, demands have arisen for the cancellation of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, set to commence at 11 pm AEST on Sunday evening. Concerns over safety have prompted these calls for abandoning the event.
🚨 | Highest rain warning has been issued in Imola by the regional weather service ⛈️
Flood warnings have also been issued 😳 pic.twitter.com/amQNaBAZej
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) May 15, 2023
Watch the Formula 1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix 2023 live free on ServusTV or ORF on Sunday, May 21st, 11:00 PM AEST.
Verstappen Gears Up for Imola’s Rainy Challenge in 2023 Grand Prix
In both 2021 and 2022, Red Bull racing driver Max Verstappen showcased his exceptional skills at the Imola circuit, conquering challenging conditions as rain swept across the track.
However, as the 2023 race approaches, the weather forecast indicates unfavorable conditions once again, with heavy rains expected. Verstappen faces the prospect of demonstrating his mastery in wet conditions for a third consecutive year, further testing his prowess and adaptability on the rain-soaked Imola circuit.
What happens if Formula 1 races happen in heavy rain?
When Formula 1 races go down in heavy rain, things get seriously intense and exciting! The track turns into a slippery beast, putting drivers’ skills to the ultimate test. With reduced visibility and a higher risk of accidents.
Teams change up their tire and pit stop strategies to conquer the wet conditions. Safety cars and possible race suspensions kick in to keep everyone safe. All in all, racing in heavy rain is a true showcase of driver expertise, guts, and adaptability, giving us some jaw-dropping and unforgettable moments in Formula 1.
