Flood alert puts F1 Las Vegas GP preparations at risk days before event

November 21, 2025 Oliver Obel

A flood watch issued Monday by the National Weather Service (NWS) remains in effect through mid-week, after rare November storms pushed water across low-lying streets and briefly delayed construction around the circuit, according to local officials.

Although desert downpours are not unusual in Nevada, meteorologists cited by local outlets pointed out that the state’s monsoon season typically ends in September, making this week’s event unusual for November.

Weekend forecast shows gradual improvement

Motorsport weather analysts referenced Friday’s practice sessions as having a roughly one-third chance of showers, though conditions are expected to improve Saturday and remain stable for race night, according to independent race-week briefs.

Organisers are still reviewing whether the early-week flooding delayed key logistical tasks — such as safety inspections, team transport routes and final track-surface preparations. Several engineers described the timeline as “tight but manageable,” based on current expectations.

A rapidly growing event on the F1 calendar

The night race in Las Vegas returned to the Formula 1 calendar in 2023 after more than 40 years away. Initially signed on a three-year deal, the event has since been extended through 2027, reflecting Formula 1’s ambition to build Las Vegas as a flagship venue, according to event-organiser statements.

The layout features a long high-speed run down the Las Vegas Strip and drew an estimated 300,000+ spectators during its debut weekend, according to local reporting.

Championship pressure builds

McLaren enters the weekend under pressure amid one of the season’s closest title fights. Driver Lando Norris leads teammate Oscar Piastri by 24 points, with reigning champion Max Verstappen still firmly in contention, according to standings reported by Reuters.

Norris has voiced concern that cooler desert night temperatures could hamper tyre warm-up — an added variable on a weekend already shaped by unpredictable weather and logistical questions.

Sources: National Weather Service, Reuters, SFGate, TalkSport, GPBlog.