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Ultra Miami Day 2 in Danger as Severe Storms Linger
Just one day after dangerous thunderstorms forced the cancellation of Ultra Music Festival’s opening day, the Miami event is staring down another potential weather debacle that could derail Day 2. Forecasts are calling for a new round of heavy rain, high winds, and even isolated tornados to develop across the region on Saturday.
Festivalgoers who braved the disappointment of Day 1 being axed just hours before gates were set to open now face the possibility of Miami’s unstable weather ruining a second straight day. Meteorologists warn that showers and storms are expected to fire up late morning into the afternoon hours. A special marine warning is also issued till 09:45 AM EDT.
In addition to bursts of heavy rainfall, gusty winds between 25-35 mph are likely to blast through Ultra’s Bayfront Park grounds, with even stronger wind gusts anticipated within any storms that develop. Perhaps most concerning is the threat of isolated tornadoes spinning up out of the volatile atmosphere. Although Saturday’s weather isn’t projected to be as catastrophic as Friday’s complete washout, Ultra Miami still faces unpredictable storm threats that could lead to delays or even cancellations on Day 2. In addition to the severe weather, flooding and heavy rains have made driving conditions very dangerous.
Flooding and heavy rain make driving conditions very dangerous. Avoid going out in rainy conditions and stay off the roads until conditions improve. Don’t drive through flooded areas, instead, turn around and find an alternate route. #TurnAroundDontDrown pic.twitter.com/Q0jwtQ2P12
— Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (@MiamiDadeFire) March 23, 2024
The severe weather outlook is a frightening prospect for Ultra organizers after Day 1’s cancellation revealed infrastructure vulnerabilities to intense storms. Despite having contingency plans and weather delay procedures in place, conditions on Friday quickly deteriorated beyond what the crew could safely manage.
Main stage headliners like Hardwell and the Chris Lake b2b Fisher tag-team were among the notable performances washed out by the day’s events. All eyes will be on the Miami skies throughout Saturday to see if Ultra’s weather luck takes a turn for the better or continues delivering a one-two punch of meteorological misery. Any sign of thunder, lightning, high winds, or tornadic activity is likely to trigger an evacuation of the festival grounds.
While Day 2 is still scheduled to proceed as planned, Ultra could face backlash and financial consequences if a second straight event is a washout. Organizers are undoubtedly desperate to avoid that scenario, though safety remains the top priority.
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