KMYSA Weather Policy

Lightning & Thunder

Lightning is the second leading cause of storm-related deaths (flooding is first). Lightning can
strike up to 10 miles outside of a thunderstorm, literally a bolt from the blue. The danger from
lightning can persist for 20-30 minutes or more after a thunderstorm has passed. The National
Weather Service does not issue watches or warnings for lightning by itself. However, the
National Weather Service does advise that if you see a lightning bolt and hear the thunder in 30
seconds or less, you seek shelter and wait 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activity.

If a person can hear thunder, or see lightning, the danger already is present. A clear, sunny sky
overhead with storm clouds nearby can still be dangerous.

Referees and Coaches should adhere to the following:

• If lightning is within five miles, with or without hearing thunder, the game(s) or practice(s)
should be suspended and shelter sought. A lightning detector can identify the distance
accurately but may not be available. A rough guideline is to measure the time between the
lightning flash and hearing the corresponding thunder. If it is 30 seconds or less, seek
shelter. It may not be possible to determine which lightning strike generated which roll of
thunder. A simple rule: If you can see it or hear it, clear it!

• KMYSA recommends that participants seek immediate shelter in their automobiles or a
designated severe weather shelter, if there is one nearby. Smaller, open structures, tents,
trees, isolated areas, etc, should be avoided. Cars, with windows rolled up or buses, can
provide good shelter. Avoid contact with metal or other conducting materials to the outside
surfaces. Do not stay in open, unprotected areas.

• Games should not be restarted for at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike is
seen or roll of thunder is heard. 


Hot Weather

Heat is a problem when it prevents the body from cooling itself. The hotter the body gets, the
more likely it is to increase fatigue levels, develop cramps and increase the possibility of heat
exhaustion and heat stroke. The hotter and more humid the weather, the faster these problems
can develop. Temps as low as 65 degrees, with a relative humidity of 100%, can be serious.

Games need to be adjusted as the heat index rises, including providing mandatory water
breaks, go to quarters and shorten the games.

Club administrators and tournament officials are responsible for monitoring the heat index and
keeping the participating teams and game officials informed of the heat index. The following are
recommended when there is a possibility of dangerous high heat index:


Heat Index & Recommendations

• Up to 89° - Normal Play
• 90° - 99° - Mandatory two-minute water breaks per half with running time. Each half
shortened by five minutes.
• 100° - 105° - Mandatory two-minute water breaks per half with running time. Each half
shortened by ten minutes.
• 105° or more - Suspend Play

For further information, please check the NOAA website for additional information in
regards to how temperature and humidity combine to make it feel hotter.


Cold Weather

When cold becomes a factor. Players should be allowed to dress in appropriate clothing. Field
conditions will be affected by freezing rain, sleet and snow. The ground may become frozen and
be unsafe for play. Temperature means either ambient (still air) or wind chill index. Check
weather radio frequently for temperature and weather conditions.

• Players on sidelines should remain dressed (if in warm-ups) until they enter the game.
• Players coming off should towel off (if sweaty) and get dressed quickly.
• No one should sit or lie directly on ground. The heat is lost faster to ground than to air.
Blankets and chairs are recommended.
• Keep an eye on field conditions (wet, icy, etc.). Cold wet conditions can quickly change field
from safe footing to slippery.Keep an eye on the goalie—usually the player who gets coldest
first, as not running or moving like a field player.
• Referees and coaches should discuss weather and fields pre-game. 


Cold Index & Recommendations

• 46° and higher - No Change
• 45° and lower
1. Allowable Additional Clothing: Layered beneath uniform (i.e. long sleeves, long
pants, additional socks)
• Gloves, mittens, stocking caps without straps
• Sweat pants or shirts may be worn underneath the
uniform, in the case of extremely cold weather, provided the entire team uses
the same color sweats.
• Jackets may be worn under the uniform so that referees can see the player's
number in the event of a card being issued.
2. Clothing NOT Allowed:
• Hooded sweatshirts (hoods and strings present possibility of being grabbed)
• Ear muffs plastic or metal part crossing top of head presents potential hazard
(headbands OK).
• Scarves (Isadora Duncan Syndrome)
• 40° and lower - Shorten games five minutes per half.
• 35° and lower - Suspend games