Peter Casey-Imagn Images

Daytona 500 forecast: Concerning weather update threatens NASCAR weekend

Originally posted on 5 GOATs | By Brian Jones | Last updated Feb 12, 2025 3:23 PM ET

The 2025 Daytona 500 could deal with some inclement weather this weekend. According to The Weather Channel, there is a strong chance of rain in Daytona Beach, Florida on Sunday, Feb. 16. The race is set to start at 2:30 p.m. ET that day.

In its forecast for this Sunday, The Weather Channel said, “Partly cloudy early followed by increasing clouds with showers developing later in the day. High 82F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 60 (percent). Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.”

The forecast for Sunday night isn’t any better. The Weather Channel said, “Showers in the evening, then clearing overnight. Low 49F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30 (percent).”

There are still a few days before the Daytona 500 happens, meaning the weather forecast can (and likely will) change. But ESPN’s Ryan McGee is not happy as he went to X to share his frustration with the current forecast.

Come on, man. #DAYTONA500 pic.twitter.com/tXjKXIUcuM
— Ryan McGee (@ESPNMcGee) February 12, 2025

If the weather impacts NASCAR’s biggest race of the season, it would be the second consecutive year that happens. In 2024, the Daytona 500 was pushed back a day after rain washed out any chance of the race happening on Sunday.

More on the Daytona 500 and the weather

“Hate the rain won today but going to try to make the most of it and meet some of you guys,” Zane Smith wrote on social media about the delay last year. “Let me know your camp spot and I will try to come find you! Might be able to drag a few other drivers along too.”

“Unfortunate cards we have been dealt as a sport, but probably the right call. Feel bad for the fans that saved up for this trip and now can’t stay,” Carson Hocevar said.

In last year’s Daytona 500, William Byron earned the victory. It led to him clinching a playoff spot and finishing third in the NASCAR Cup Series standings.

“Just so proud of this team, whole Axalta team. 40th anniversary, to the day (of Hendrick Motorsports’ first race) on Monday,” Byron said, per NBC Sports. “Just extremely blessed and thankful for all the opportunities, and now we just want to keep it going. We have a lot to prove this year and this is a good start. Obviously, Daytona 500, it’s freaking awesome.”

This article first appeared on 5 GOATs and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: