The longest race in the Cup Series calendar — the Coca-Cola 600 — could get even more drawn out if Mother Nature has her way.
The threat of heavy rain and thunderstorms looms large over Charlotte Motor Speedway, the site of Sunday’s race. Such conditions descended onto the iconic surface throughout Saturday, scrawling across the track like wet paint. Although the weather has held up for the most part on Sunday night, things can turn very quickly where Mother Nature is concerned. Just look at this year’s Indy 500 for proof.
NASCAR’s biggest stars have flocked to the Queen City asphalt, hoping to claim a gemstone from one of the sport’s crown jewel races. Will they be able to slalom across the track without having to worry about slick conditions and stormy weather, however? Only time will tell.
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The Sporting News is tracking live weather updates from the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte. Follow below for the latest news regarding the status of Sunday’s race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
MORE: Why Kyle Larson will likely receive waiver for Cup Series playoffs
NASCAR at Charlotte weather updates
(All times Eastern)
9:35 p.m.: Here’s a look at the race’s top-ten once the red flag waved:
- Christopher Bell
- Brad Keselowski
- William Byron
- Tyler Reddick
- Denny Hamlin
- Ty Gibbs
- Chase Elliott
- Ross Chastain
- Alex Bowman
- Josh Berry
9:25 p.m.: Shortly after Kyle Larson returned from the Brickyard, NASCAR announced that it is waving a canary flag for rain. Here’s a look at the weather radar at present:
Not positive this rain cell would end the race. Would depend how long it falls. It is raining. pic.twitter.com/GmBvHE3m4G
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 27, 2024
9:15 p.m.: It’s being communicated to drivers that they’ve got about 20 minutes of clean driving before rain takes over the track. Have to imagine they’ll move accordingly, especially if they believe the race would be called off instead of delayed.
Rain still seems at least 20-30 minutes away. Lightning could come before rain. But I think have to pit and not try to stay out and hope race stops soon. pic.twitter.com/NQ9uJDBspY
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 27, 2024
9:00 p.m.: A look at Charlotte’s latest 30-minute weather radar, courtesy of Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass:
Here is last 30 minute radar … pic.twitter.com/oN1uk4KFq0
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 27, 2024
8:50 p.m.: Trouble could be abound from Queen City. Seems like things are destined to get wet at some point. It’s just a question of when, not if.
Track now under a severe thunderstorm warning. pic.twitter.com/0hcedPubd7
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 27, 2024
