WeatherFanatics: Wimbledon to Start Warm, Dry

Saturday, June 21, 2014

Wimbledon to Start Warm, Dry

By Eric Leister, Meteorologist

June 21,2014; 8:13PM,EDT

The Wimbledon Championships are set to begin on Monday in London, and dry weather will welcome the players on day one.
A large area of high pressure will be centered west of the United Kingdom, forcing any stormy weather to the north and east.
As a result, there will be a mixture of clouds and sunshine with highs reaching 23 C (74 F). The normal high in London during this time of the year is near 21 C (70 F).
Tennis Channel analyst Justin Gimelstob stated, "The warmer weather translates to faster conditions due to lighter air and the ball moving through the air quicker."
"When the weather is warm, especially for long stretches, the courts get harder and the balls bounce higher creating a dynamic where the ball picks up speed upon contact with the court surface," according to Gimelstob.

Andy Murray of Britain kisses the trophy as he poses for photographers after winning against Novak Djokovic of Serbia in the Men's singles final match at the All England Lawn Tennis Championships in Wimbledon, London, Sunday, July 7, 2013. (AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus, Pool)
Seasonably warm, dry weather is expected to continue through at least Wednesday as high pressure remains in control.
High pressure may then shift to the southwest during the second half of next week allowing a storm system to bring the threat of showers to much of the United Kingdom.
While much of the precipitation is expected to stay north of London, any showers from Thursday into Saturday could be enough to cause brief delays on the outside courts.
The weather may turn more unsettled during the second week of play as another storm system approaches from the west.
Even though the Center Court roof will keep matches going through any adverse weather, this also creates a different environment for players.
Gimelstob noted "When the roof closes, Wimbledon becomes an indoor event with a completely controlled environment, no sun, nor wind which favors the more aggressive player."

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