Weather Policies

A young boy is standing on a soccer field at sunset.

30-Min Lightning Rule

Criteria for Safe Return to Practice or Game Area after seeing Lightning or hearing Thunder… the ’30-minute’ Clock


  • Personnel should not return to the practice or game area until thirty (30) minutes have passed since the last lightning flash.
  • Each time lightning is observed and or thunder is heard, the ’30-minute clock’ is to be reset.
  • Blue skies in the local area and or a lack of rainfall are not adequate reasons to breach the 30-minute return-to-play rule. Lightning can strike up to ten (10) miles away from the rain shaft of a storm.
  • Your field staff and or supervisor will make the calls on the weather for all games.
  • All Coaches will need to follow the first three points above for practices.

Cold Weather Recommendations

According to the National Weather Service… Wind chill is only defined for temperatures at or below 50°F degrees and wind speeds above 3 mph. Bright sunshine may increase the wind chill temperature by 10°F to 18°F.

Note the following excerpt from the U.S. Soccer ‘Cold Weather Guidelines':

Temperature/Windchill

  • 30° or Above

    Additional clothing ALLOWED layered beneath uniform [long sleeves, gloves, mittens, hats without straps, jackets (must be zipped)].


    -NOT ALLOWED:  Hooded sweatshirts or Scarves while in gameplay.

  • 35° or Below

    Practice: Should be monitored by coaches & Risk Management. Players not properly dressed will be asked to leave.




  • 20° or Colder

    Suspend Play



Hot Weather Recommendations

HEAT INDEX UNDER 95° Provide ample water. Water is always available and athletes have unrestricted access. Optional water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minute time frames. Ice-down towels are available. Athletes should be monitored carefully. Re-check heat index every 30 minutes. HEAT INDEX FROM 95° TO 104° Provide ample water. Water is always available and athletes have unrestricted access. Mandatory water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minute time frames. Ice-down towels are available. Reduce time outside or move indoors to air conditioning if possible. Postpone practice to later in the day if possible. Re-check heat index every 30 minutes. HEAT INDEX FROM 105° AND ABOVE Stop all outside activity including practice or play. Stop all indoor activity if air conditioning is not available and the heat index indoors is 105° or greater. Re-check heat index every 30 minutes. US Soccer Youth Heat & Hydration Guidelines