Rain expected for NASCAR’s championship weekend

NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers are gearing up for the last race of the season at Homestead Miami Speedway in Homestead, Florida, this Sunday, but storms could put a damper on their parade.

A 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup champion will be crowned at the conclusion of the Ford EcoBoost 400.

Engines are set to start at 3:00 p.m. EST.

Unfortunately, race-goers should expect to dodge showers and thunderstorms and endure rain delays throughout the weekend.

According to AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Matt Rinde, "There will be a strong frontal system moving across South Florida on Sunday which will only increase the chance for shower and thunderstorm activity."

"The front appears to approach near the start of the race, which could lead to delays, not only at the start but also mid-race", stated Rinde.

Numerous festivities, including concerts, qualifying races, practices and driver appearances, will begin on Friday and lead up to the main event on Sunday.

"Even before the front arrives on Sunday, the chance for showers and thunderstorms will be around each afternoon as a weaker front lingers across South Florida into Saturday," said Rinde.

Attendees should prepare to bring rain gear for each day of the weekend's events.

Rain could also cause delays for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Ford EcoBoost 200 on Friday night and the NASCAR Xfinity Series Ford EcoBoost 300 on Saturday afternoon. Both series will also be crowning their respective champions at Homestead this weekend.

Weather delays have not been unusual for NASCAR races as of late. The Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 in Phoenix, Arizona, was plagued by rain delays last weekend. The Sprint Cup race ultimately had to be cut short.

High temperatures will remain in the low 80s F in Homestead this weekend, which is right about normal for this time of year.