Kentucky Derby forecast: Weekend weather updates for Churchill Downs
The first leg of the Triple Crown is upon us, and those in attendance, along with the jockeys and their horses, are hoping for a clear forecast for "Run for the Roses" on Saturday.
The 151st version of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is expected to entertain more than 150,000 spectators.
Last year, Mystik Dan ran the 11⁄4 mile dirt under partly cloudy skies, crossing the finish line first. It was the fifth straight year that the race was run on a fast track. It's been a while since the race started with a sloppy track. Country House won the race under rainy conditions in 2019 after Maximum Security, who was the first horse to finish, was disqualified for impeding the travel of two other horses.
Here's everything you need to know about the forecast in Louisville, Kentucky:
What is the 2025 Kentucky Derby forecast for Saturday?
According to the National Weather Service, there is a chance for rain each day leading up to Saturday, with an 80% chance of rain on Thursday and a 50% chance on Friday. For race day, the chance of precipitation is lowered to 20%, with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. The forecast calls for mostly sunny skies, with a high of 66.
Kentucky Derby weather records
Rain Days: 71 of 150 Derby days (47%) have experienced rain at some point during the day.
Coldest temperature: 36° — May 4, 1940 and May 4, 1957
Warmest temperature: 94° — May 2, 1959
Wettest: 3.15 inches of rain May 5, 2018
Frozen precipitation: On May 6, 1989, sleet was observed from 1:01 p.m. to 1:05 p.m. local time