Rock and Roll Marathon San Diego Canceled Mid-Race Due to Weather Emergency
SAN DIEGO, CA — The annual Rock and Roll Marathon San Diego came to an abrupt halt Sunday afternoon when race organizers suspended the event due to a sudden and severe weather emergency, citing safety concerns for the thousands of participants who had already begun the 26.2-mile course.
According to officials, the decision to halt the marathon was made around 1:30 p.m. local time after a rapid deterioration of conditions, including high winds and lightning strikes, were reported along several sections of the downtown route. Emergency services were dispatched to multiple locations to assist runners and divert traffic, while medical teams treated at least ten individuals for minor injuries related to panic and dehydration.
The San Diego Police Department confirmed that no fatalities were reported, but a full investigation into the incident is underway. Race organizers issued a statement saying all finisher medals and commemorative shirts would still be distributed to registered runners, with a partial refund to be announced later this week.
The Rock and Roll Marathon San Diego, a staple of the city’s running calendar, attracts over 20,000 participants annually. This marks the first time the event has been forced to cancel mid-race in its 25-year history.