Bus Roadeo Toolkit

Weather Delays and Suspension

Advanced and adequate preparation enables event organizers to remain calm and manage weather-related emergencies effectively before or during the event. Organizers should clearly communicate in advance how they will share information about cancellations or delays. Having a communication plan in place ahead of time sets expectations and lets people know where to look for updates. Adjustments in schedules and event suspensions should follow a consistent, safety-driven approach that protects participants, event staff, spectators, and equipment. Three core principles of emergency preparedness apply to all roadeo events: understand potential threats, stay informed, and communicate clearly. Event organizers should closely monitor weather conditions in the days leading up to the roadeo and throughout the event, using credible resources to track storms, lightning, wind, and extreme temperatures. When threatening conditions arise, activities should be paused immediately and participants directed to a designed safe area(s). Host agencies may also have established emergency management policies and procedures that must be followed during severe weather or other natural disasters.

Natural disasters and threats such as tornadoes, hurricanes, lightning, or high winds that could compromise tents or course equipment, heavy rain that reduces visibility, or any severe weather alert should trigger an immediate delay or suspension. During a delay, organizers should secure the course, park vehicles safely, and continuously reassess conditions until it is safe to resume. All individuals on site should be moved to a predetermined, secure shelter location.

If conditions improve, the event may resume as planned or with necessary course modifications to maintain safety. If conditions worsen or the site becomes unsafe, event organizers should cancel the event and clearly communicate that decision to all involved. Identifying shelter locations, along with establishing evacuation strategies and a communication plan during the planning stage, helps ensure delays and suspensions are handled in an orderly and predictable manner. By prioritizing safety and following clear procedures, roadeo organizers can respond effectively to severe weather while preserving the integrity of the event whenever possible. 

Updated August 10, 2026