Inclement Weather Policy

Washington Capital United simulates a competitive playing environment. We train year-round, weather permitting. Training sessions are canceled based on the weather conditions noted below. An announcement will be sent by the Operations Director, the Technical Director, or Club Admin, via PlayMetrics to all club members as early as possible, but no later than 3:00pm. These guidelines are a compilation of USSF and USYS guidelines.

Winter Weather

Players are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing to aid body heat retention yet afford adequate movement without creating a safety hazard. Training will be cancelled as listed below or if field conditions are unusable due to previous weather events.

Youngest Age Groups (U10 teams and under):

  • Temperatures (including wind chill) during the session are forecast to be below 35 degrees.

  • Temperatures during the session are forecast to be below 45 degrees with continuous rain.

  • There is a reasonable chance of thunderstorms during the session.

Older Age Groups (U11 teams and above):

  • Temperatures during the session are forecast to be below 30 degrees.

  • Temperatures during the session are forecast to be below 40 degrees with continuous rain. 

  • There is a reasonable chance of thunderstorms during the session.

Hot Weather Policy

The risk of heat-related illness from vigorous sports activity increases with the temperature. Hot weather is considered at any point where the heat index reaches or exceeds 90. As a general rule, training programs will be cancelled if the heat index at the start of training is projected to be above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (per US Youth Soccer guidelines). Coaches should exercise caution and provide additional water breaks for temperatures below that.

Lightning and Thunder Policy

At the first sound of thunder, staff will start monitoring the situation. However, at the first sign of thunder accompanied by lightning, all coaches and players are to withdraw from the field and seek proper shelter.

30 Minute Rule - Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder or the last lightning flash before giving the “all clear” signal and resuming normal activity. If thunder is heard or lightning is seen again within that 30-minute time frame, all activities shall be cancelled for that time frame.

**Based on the hourly forecast with wind chill, as posted on https://www.weatherbug.com/ Anacostia, DC location.