B4. Inclement Weather Rules

B4.1. Pre-emptive rescheduling

B4.1.1. WFDF Officials will monitor weather forecasts at least twenty-four 24 hours ahead of each day’s play.

B4.1.2. If inclement weather is predicted for a day of play, Officials may inform all captains of a modified schedule of play no later than twelve (12) hours before the new scheduled commencement of play on that day.

B4.1.3. The modified schedule may include an earlier start time, shorter breaks between games, lower time caps and/or a lower target. Shortened game times should only be used where there is high likelihood of interruption and little capacity to catch up any delayed game on a subsequent day (eg if it is the final day).

B4.1.4. In extreme cases, the modified schedule may include pre-emptively cancelled games to provide space for more important games to be rescheduled.

B4.1.5. Play may also be allowed to finish later in the day in the case of a delay.

B4.2. Lightning

B4.2.1. On-site risk identification

B4.2.1.1. On a day where thunderstorms are predicted, Officials will access live weather observations, such as on-line weather radars or radio weather warnings, to anticipate the arrival of thunderstorms at the venue.

B4.2.1.2. If a thunderstorm is imminent, Officials should inform all captains and officials on site that there is a possibility of play being suspended and to reiterate the WFDF rules regarding risk identification and response. Captains and officials should also inform players and other persons on the field of the correct risk identification and response procedures if possible.

B4.2.1.3. If lightning is observed or thunder is heard, a WFDF Official will count the time between the lightning (flash) and the thunder (bang). If the time delay is less than thirty (30) seconds then the strike was closer than ten (10) kilometres and the playing area will be cleared immediately.

B4.2.1.4. If lightning monitoring technology is present at the venue then B4.2.1.3 does not apply and WFDF Officials may act based on the advice of the venue officials.

B4.2.1.5. If anyone observes hair standing on end, hears crackling or hears static on electronic devices, a lightning strike may be imminent, and all people in the vicinity should be alerted.

B4.2.2. Response to observed risk

B4.2.2.1. Upon a lightning risk being identified, an Official must immediately alert both team captains. Play must be immediately suspended and the disc left where it lies. Any play after a captain has been informed of the suspension will be deemed null and void.

B4.2.2.2. All people should seek appropriate shelter.

B4.2.2.3. If people are caught exposed in a thunderstorm and cannot seek appropriate shelter, they should crouch into a ball, preferably in a hollow in the ground, and remove any metal accessories.

B4.2.3. Resuming play

B4.2.3.1. Players must only return to the playing field once thirty (30) minutes has elapsed since lightning or thunder was last observed, unless lightning monitoring technology is being used, and after official notice from WFDF Officials that return to the field is permitted.

B4.3. Hot weather

B4.3.1. During each days play WFDF Officials will determine if extreme hot weather will pose a risk to players of heat-related illness and injuries.

B4.3.2. On days where extreme hot weather is predicted WFDF Officials should inform all captains and officials on site and convey appropriate methods for dealing with hot weather. Captains and officials should also inform players and other persons on the field of these methods.

B4.3.3. In the case of extreme hot weather, play may be adjusted in the following ways:

B4.3.3.1. Additional stoppages may be added between points to allow players to rest and re-hydrate.

B4.3.3.2. Play may be rescheduled to avoid playing in the hottest time of the day.

B4.3.3.3. Game length and points cap may be reduced.

B4.3.3.4. Play may be suspended or cancelled if conditions are deemed by the TRG/TTD/CMO to be too extreme.

B4.4. Air Quality

B4.4.1. During each days play WFDF Officials will monitor the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for the tournament location using local resources.

B4.4.2. If the AQHI is 3 or below, activity will continue as normal.

B4.4.3. If the AQHI is 4-6

B4.4.3.1. There will be the addition of one official stoppage per half. For a game to 15, the first stoppage occurs when a team reaches 4. The second stoppage occurs when a team reaches 12 or at Time cap. These numbers should be prorated for games played to a different point total.

B4.4.3.2. For each official stoppage, the time prior to the pull is extended by 3 minutes.

B4.4.4. If the AQHI is 7+

B4.4.4.1. All games are to be suspended until such time as AQHI falls below 7. Players and tournament staff should be told to shelter indoors where possible.