What is the weather forecast for the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix?

Formula 1 travels to Japan earlier than usual in 2024 as its traditional late-season slot is swapped for April – but how has this affected the weather forecast at Suzuka?

Given that calendar date change, cooler conditions are expected at the iconic venue over the course of the weekend, with rain – and potentially thunderstorms – also likely to become a feature as race day approaches.

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Scroll down to get a detailed weather forecast for the days ahead.

2024 Japanese Grand Prix weekend weather forecast

FRIDAY, APRIL 5 – FP1 AND FP2
Conditions: Chilly morning and mostly cloudy but likely dry for FP1. Overcast with an increasing chance of light rain from the afternoon. 30% chance of one light shower for FP2. Light breeze peaking in the afternoon at 15-20kph.
FP1: 14°C. FP2: 15°C.
Maximum temperature expected: 15 Celsius
Minimum temperature expected: 9 Celsius
Chance of rain: 40%

SATURDAY, APRIL 6 – FP3 AND QUALIFYING
Conditions: Overcast with a slight chance of drizzle or light rain all day long. Increasing chance of rain overnight. Light southeasterly breeze.
FP3: 15°C. Q: 16°C.
Maximum temperature expected: 17 Celsius
Minimum temperature expected: 10 Celsius
Chance of rain: 20%

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SUNDAY, APRIL 7 – RACE WEATHER
Conditions: Moderate chance of rain in the morning (less than 5mm in 24h if occurs). Slight improvement expected for the race with likely drier conditions in the afternoon.
RACE: 18°C.
Maximum temperature expected: 18 Celsius
Minimum temperature expected: 12 Celsius
Chance of rain: 40%