Las Vegas FLOOD ALERT ahead of the 2025 F1 Grand Prix!

Unusual rain, familiar consequences

Heavy rain swept through Las Vegas and dumped roughly 10% of the city’s annual rainfall in about an hour. Low-lying spots along the Strip, like the LINQ Hotel, flooded quickly. Basement car parks and lower levels filled with rushing water that moves into the underground drainage tunnels. In places that rarely see rain, that water concentrates fast and can force people who live or work in subterranean spaces to evacuate temporarily.

Important context: this kind of flash flooding is unpleasant and dramatic, but it tends to clear quickly. The race schedule does not begin until Thursday, and local forecasts and drainage systems usually dissipate the standing water within a day or so. A flood watch was issued and extended into the night, but the situation is cyclical rather than catastrophic.

Timing matters: how the schedule and lighting help

This year’s Grand Prix starts at 8:00 p.m., which is noticeably earlier than past years when sessions began at 10:00 p.m. or even midnight. That shift matters for two reasons.

• Practice sessions during sunset: First and third practice sessions occur at 4:30 p.m., right around sunset. If skies clear, those sessions will deliver beautiful light for spectators and photographers alike. Expect the last half hour of those sessions to be under artificial lighting.
• Earlier racing reduces overnight weather risk: An 8:00 p.m. race start reduces the likelihood of heavy precipitation during the main event window, compared with the midnight starts of earlier years.

Still, a wet track creates unpredictability. In a city unused to persistent rain, roads can behave like ice during and after storms. If rain persists through the weekend, on-track action could become chaotic — and that is part of the attraction for many fans who love a rain-affected Grand Prix.

Where to be at the track and ticket advice

If you want the cheapest way in, general admission is the way to go. Three-day general admission tickets sold out quickly, though single-day options remain in some pockets. If you can, target a ticket that gives access to the T-Mobile Zone.

Why the T-Mobile Zone? It houses a stage with concerts and offers close-up views of cars at low speed. That combination makes for a great day: entertainment, atmosphere, and the chance to see cars where they slow down enough to soak up detail.

For those curious about premium experiences: pit-lane hospitality offerings can reach stratospheric prices. For example, an exclusive dining experience located in Pit Lane was priced at roughly $28,000 per person and sold out quickly. These kinds of packages are aimed at high-end corporate and VIP guests and are not necessary to enjoy the spectacle.

Pop-ups, helmets, and who’s in town

Big-name drivers often do promotional pop-ups during race week. One popular stop was a fashion outlet at a major hotel where race-worn helmets and signed items drew huge queues. Crowds gathered in the hundreds to see appearances and to pick up limited-time merchandise.

Most drivers stay in the city’s luxury hotels: think the Wynn, Four Seasons, and other high-end properties along the Strip. Expect F1 branding across the city — from hotel displays to monorail liveries — and a festival atmosphere as teams and fans converge.

City practicalities: food, laundry, and transport

Las Vegas is set up to serve large crowds, but a few local hacks make life easier if you are traveling:

• Food options: Supermarkets and casual eateries offer quick and cost-effective alternatives to trackside hospitality. A supermarket pizza slice can be a good mid-day option when you want something quick and affordable.
• Laundry: For those on the move for long stretches, a 24-hour laundry service can be a lifesaver. Drop-off and quick turnaround services are common in city neighborhoods close to the Strip.
• Transport and traffic: Expect increased traffic. The event is one of the biggest draws for the city and brings both economic benefits and congestion. Plan for extra travel time between hotels, fan zones, and the circuit.

Capturing the weekend: light, lenses, and weather

Photography opportunities are abundant if the skies cooperate. Sunset practice sessions offer a mix of natural light and track lighting that makes for dramatic images. If rain remains on the menu, the wet surface reflections can produce striking visuals but require different handling — waterproof gear and quick lens changes.

“If the skies clear up, we will get some lovely shots at 4:30 with a bit of light in the sky.”

Bring protective covers for camera bodies, quick-drying towels, and a plan for shelter between sessions. A monopod or lightweight tripod is useful for low-light practice shots, while faster lenses are preferable if the light drops or the action becomes wet and unpredictable.

Safety tips if rain continues

When rain hits a city that is not built for regular storms, take a conservative approach:

• Expect slick conditions: Streets can be especially treacherous during and after downpours; treat pavements and ramps as if they were icy.
• Allow extra travel time: Hotel transfers and local taxi services will be busier and slower in heavy rain, and rideshare availability can be uneven during mass arrivals or departures.
• Drainage variability: Low-level hotel areas and underground access points are the most likely to flood. Avoid those if possible during heavy rain periods.
• On-track outcomes: A wet race can lead to surprising results and safety interventions. Expect intermittent delays, safety car periods, or red flags in extreme conditions.

Will the flood watch affect the race weekend?

A flood watch indicates elevated risk in the short term, but the drainage in Las Vegas tends to dissipate standing water quickly. With the race schedule starting on Thursday and forecasts typically improving, the event is unlikely to be cancelled. Local authorities monitor conditions closely and will issue updates if anything changes.

Are tickets still available and which areas are recommended?

Some single-day tickets remain, but three-day general admission tickets have sold out in many categories. The T-Mobile Zone is a top recommendation for concert access and close-up car viewing when cars slow down.

Where do drivers usually stay during race week?

Drivers and teams typically book high-end hotels along the Strip, such as the Wynn and other luxury properties. These hotels offer proximity to fan zones and privacy for team operations.

What should I pack if rain is in the forecast?

Pack waterproof outer layers, quick-dry clothing, protective camera covers, and sturdy footwear with good grip. A compact umbrella and a waterproof bag for electronics are also wise choices.

Will concerts and fan activities continue if it rains?

Many concert and fan-zone activities are designed to proceed in light rain, but heavy downpours or safety concerns may force temporary pauses. Expect organizers to prioritize safety while trying to keep the entertainment running where feasible.