In Ontario, grassroots soccer games and practices generally continue to play in the rain. Matches are only called off if thunder or lightning is present, if heavy downpours cause dangerous flooding/standing water, or if the local municipality (or club) closes the fields due to wet field conditions.
Rain vs. Severe Weather Protocols
Rain Only: Standard rain does not cancel games. Players should come prepared with proper footwear (e.g., cleats for soft ground) and water-resistant layers to stay warm.
Thunder & Lightning: Governing bodies strictly follow Canada Soccer’s Severe Weather and Lightning Policy. If you hear thunder, you must immediately get to a safe location and wait a minimum of 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before returning to the field.
Unplayable Fields: If standing water creates unsafe conditions or if heavy rain causes extensive damage to the turf, clubs and municipalities will officially close the fields.
Who Makes the Call?
Prior to Field Arrival: Your local club or municipality will typically make early field-closure decisions (often by 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM) via website updates, emails, or social media.
Will usually only be notified prior for excessive heat. Storms can be unpredictable and fast moving. Unless the radar map is showing a large severe storms at game time we will just wait for game time decisions.
At the Field: Once play has started or if no club official is present, the Match Official (Referee) has the ultimate authority to delay, suspend, or terminate the match due to unsafe weather or unplayable pitch conditions.
For U5 (no referee): Coaches can agree to cancel the game. Game is immediately canceled if thunder or lightening are present. If only rain, decision can be made based on a discussion and agreement between coaches.
We understand there is a convenience factor waiting until game. It is always your decision to send your child if you feel the weather may be unpredictable.
Thank you,
Corunna Soccer
