Thunderstorms force Monday shutdown at US Masters 2025

he 2025 US Masters got off to a chaotic start on Monday as severe weather forced the evacuation of more than 40,000 spectators from Augusta National Golf Club.

What was supposed to be a relaxed opening practice round turned into a scene of confusion and disappointment, with thunderstorms and lightning in the area prompting officials to suspend play and clear the grounds just before noon.

The warning horn sounded, the scoreboard lit up with “Play Suspended,” and Augusta’s typically serene fairways were suddenly filled with patrons scrambling to exit. Despite hopes for a late-afternoon reopening, the gates remained shut, and by 3:00 PM local time, tournament organizers confirmed the course would remain closed for the rest of the day.

Ticketholders were promised refunds and will receive priority access to 2026 practice round tickets—a rare offering from one of golf’s most tradition-rich tournaments.

“We are disappointed our patrons could not fully enjoy today’s practice round, but the safety of everyone at Augusta National is our highest priority.”

Top online sportsbooks remain active despite the interruption. World No.1 Scottie Scheffler leads the field at +550 to claim his second green jacket, while Aussie rising star Min Woo Lee, fresh off his breakthrough PGA Tour win in Houston, is priced at +3400.

The dramatic weather wasn’t entirely unexpected. Local station WJBF had warned of potential flash flooding, high winds, and even isolated tornadoes in the area. In response, Augusta National locked down parking areas, kept the gates closed, and advised fans to stay clear of the property.

It’s not the first time Augusta has faced Mother Nature’s fury. In 2023, fans narrowly avoided disaster when towering pines came crashing down during a sudden storm, while last year’s Hurricane Helene left sections of the course badly damaged after 125mph winds swept through Georgia.

This year’s opening-day evacuation is yet another reminder that even the most revered traditions in sports can’t outrun a thundercloud.

Still, tournament officials are optimistic the weather will clear in time for the official start of play on Friday. With elite names like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and defending champ Brooks Koepka also in the mix, there’s still plenty of drama to come—on and off the course.