11 April 2008
The world's biggest road race gets under way this Sunday, with the weather conditions expected to be an important factor for all the competitors.
In the run up to the event, race organisers have been receiving consultancy services from the Met Office, as well as the very latest weather information for the coming weekend in the capital.
With climate change and a warming trend expected over the coming years, the weather becomes an increasingly serious factor for long-distance runners.
Head of Health Forecasting at the Met Office, Wayne Elliott added: "Fortunately, conditions for the race look like being much cooler than last year. However, expertise at the Met Office means that health forecasts can provide businesses and health authorities with specific details on how hot and cold weather can impact on them".
The latest forecast from the Met Office is for mixed weather, it will be a chilly start with some sunshine and also some showers. Winds could be fresh at times.
The race starts at staged times between 9 a.m. and 9.45 a.m.
| Temperature, London, 13 April 2008 | |
|---|---|
| 9 a.m. | 6 °C |
| Noon | 10 °C |
| 3 p.m. | 13 °C |
Read more about the London marathon
Latest forecast for the London area
| For further information: |
| Met Office Press Office +44 (0)1392 886655 |
| E-mail: pressoffice@metoffice.gov.uk |
| Met Office Customer Centre 0870 900 0100 |
| If you're outside the UK +44 (0)1392 885680 |
