Imola circuit evacuated due to heavy rain

With heavy rain affecting the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, staff and personnel at the Imola circuit have been told to evacuate.

Several areas are currently subjected to intense rainfall, which has already started to cause flooding, and the heavy rain is expected to continue until approximately the Wednesday evening prior to the race weekend.

According a source, personnel present at the Imola track have been told to leave the circuit, although this was believed to be as a precautionary measure, rather than due to any immediate risk. Images of the sodden F1 paddock also emerged online.

Formula 1 had previously said that they were confident in there would be minimal disruption to the weekends action.

The rain is expected to ease as the weekend approaches, but still expected to play a part in the grand prix proceedings. It remains to be seen if the weather will have an impact on travel and logistics for the event.