Flying Pig Marathon saw rain, thunderstorms in 2023. What happens if it rains this year?

Victoria Moorwood, Cincinnati Enquirer

Rainy weather and thunderstorms could coincide with Flying Pig Marathon weekend.

The event, which was voted the best marathon in the country by USA TODAY readers, will be held in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday. Other races and events take place all weekend, starting Friday.

Race officials will closely monitor the weather with local meteorologists and the event's medical director, Jackie Reau, CEO of Game Day Communications, told The Enquirer in an email. If there are updates about the race, runners will be alerted via email, social media and through the Pig Works app.

Last year, runners endured heavy rain, and a non-mandatory shelter-in-place order was issued mid-race. Reau said organizers met with public safety officials this week, and this year, they added additional staff members and resources from the National Weather Service.

Worried about rain this weekend? Here's what to know before the race.

Runners endured heavy rain, thunder and lightning during the 2023 Flying Pig Marathon.
Runners endured heavy rain, thunder and lightning during the 2023 Flying Pig Marathon.

Cincinnati weekend weather forecast

Rain and thunderstorms are possible Friday and Saturday, the first two days of Flying Pig events. On Sunday, which is the day of the marathon and half-marathon, there is a 40% chance for rain after 8 a.m., according to the weather service.

Flying Pig rain policy

Flying Pig races use a flag system to communicate with runners, Reau said. The flag system will be used if there is inclement weather, extreme heat or dangerous conditions.

Each color flag has a different meaning:

  • Green: Go at your own pace.

  • Yellow: Proceed with caution.

  • Red: Slow your pace.

  • Black: The race is officially canceled.

In the case of bad weather, flags would be displayed at 19 aid stations along the course, as determined by race officials and the medical director.

Will I get a refund if the Flying Pig is canceled?

No refunds will be issued in case of a weather cancellation, according to the event's website.

Has the Flying Pig been canceled for bad weather before?

The Flying Pig has never been canceled due to weather. The flag system has been in place every year.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon: What to know if it rains

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