Typhoon Florence pummels Carolinas with no relief

When Storms Hit: Weather, Courts and Playing Safely

Hurricane Florence, which struck the Carolinas in September 2018, is remembered less for its wind than for its rain. The storm slowed almost to a crawl after landfall, so the downpour went on for days, rivers rose well after the skies cleared, and communities spent weeks dealing with flooding. That pattern of slow, soaking storms causing more damage than fast, windy ones is a useful reminder for anyone who plays outdoor sport, including pickleball players here in Bengaluru.

Bengaluru does not face hurricanes, but the southwest and northeast monsoons bring heavy, sometimes sudden rain, and low-lying roads and open grounds can flood quickly. Outdoor courts are directly affected. Standing water makes the surface slippery, can hide cracks or loose grit, and leaves the ball skidding unpredictably. Even after a shower stops, a court that looks dry may still be damp near the lines, where painted surfaces hold moisture longer.

Practical habits for rainy-season play

• Check before you travel. Look at the forecast and ask your group or venue whether play is going ahead, rather than assuming.
• Test the surface. Walk the court, especially the kitchen line and baselines, and squeegee or towel any puddles before rallying.
• Respect lightning. If you hear thunder, leave the court. Open courts with metal fencing are no place to wait out a storm.
• Protect your gear. Dry your paddle and shoes after wet sessions. Moisture can damage grips and edge guards over time.
• Plan your route home. Waterlogged roads can turn a short drive into a long one, so allow extra time.

When outdoor courts are unplayable, covered or indoor venues keep the game going. Our courts page is a good starting point for finding places to play, and the events listings are worth checking for weather-related changes. Florence showed how quickly conditions can change. A little preparation keeps everyone on court safe, whatever the season brings.