Thursday, June 18, 2009

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Eyes On The Skies

Whether sunshine or rain, the USGA uses cutting edge technology to stay one step ahead of the weather

By Dave Fanucchi, USGA

Farmingdale, N.Y. - When adverse weather is on the horizon at the U.S. Open, how does the USGA monitor the situation and determine what to do?

Since 1994, USGA officials have utilized a lightning and weather prediction system designed by Thor Guard. The Sunrise, Fla. based company has installed its stand-alone lightning-warning device at more than 1,000 golf courses around the country. This year at Bethpage State Park, “U.S. Open weather central” is in a trailer near the practice range, where Thor Guard meteorologist Greg Quinn keeps a close eye on the local weather pattern on two laptop computers that are connected to a large flat-screen monitor. The computers show real-time radar and satellite images from the National Weather Service. The Thor Guard software then takes the images and downloads them into a customized map program developed for each USGA championship site. The system tracks lightning that is occurring within 12 miles of a central location (in most cases the midpoint of the golf course being played), and sends out a warning signal at least eight minutes in advance of when lightning could strike within two miles. “We look for any weather that is going to adversely affect the course conditions, the playability of the golf course and the safety of the players and spectators,” said USGA Deputy Executive Director Mike Butz. “That could be anything from lightning, wind, and heavy rain to excessive heat and dryness.”

If inclement weather is approaching, the USGA posts “Weather Warning” signs on leaderboards around the course. In most instances, the USGA attempts to issue this weather advisory at least 45 minutes before a possible situation might occur, so that spectators are informed before play is suspended.

“It really depends on which way the weather system is moving, whether we decide if we are going to suspend play,” said Butz. “If the golf course is its direct path, then more often than not, we take action.” If a decision is made to suspend play, a prolonged air-horn blast is sounded. That's the cue for players to head toward one of the temporary shelters dispersed around the course. This week at Bethpage Black, there are nine shelter locations for players. Spectators are urged to close their umbrellas and exit grandstands immediately, while also avoiding open areas, hilltops, high places, isolated trees, golf carts and wire fences. To find out more about how the USGA’s contingency plans – and the Rules of Golf – come into play when “varied weather” arrives during a championship, go to: When It Rains…,an account of the second round of the 2002 U.S. Open at Bethpage Black.

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