Rain possible for Friday night football games

Friday night football fans should prepare for rain and a possibility of game-delaying lightning can’t be ruled out.

Spot showers are possible at game time in many parts of mid-Missouri, ABC 17 News meteorologists say. Heavy rains are shifting east into the weekend and flash flooding is still a threat to mid-Missouri.

ABC 17 News Meteorologist Aaron Morrison said a flash flood watch is in effect until 7 a.m. Sunday.

“The biggest thing though is lightning. Rain and overcast skies like we are anticipating tonight into the weekend really won’t have an affect on the game other than muddy conditions and being able to catch the ball,” Morrison said.

Football games can be postponed for 30 minutes should lighting strike, Columbia Public Schools spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark said.

Morrison said lightning does not look like an issue for tonight’s local games.

Several high school football teams, such as Mexico High School, played Thursday night because of the Friday weather forecast.