Augusta National evacuated amid wild weather at US Masters

The Masters has erupted into chaos on day one, with more than 40,000 patrons forced to evacuate Augusta National in extraordinary scenes as wild weather lashed the iconic course.

What was meant to be a peaceful Monday practice round turned into a logistical nightmare, as heavy storms and lightning threats prompted officials to shut down the grounds shortly before midday.

The horn was sounded, the scoreboard flashed “play suspended,” and the floodgates opened — not with rain, but with a wave of patrons scrambling to get out.

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Gates never reopened, and by 3pm local time, tournament organisers confirmed the worst: the course was closed for the day, and the thousands who’d made the pilgrimage to golf’s holy grail would be offered refunds — and a shot at 2026 tickets instead.

With this year’s US Masters tournament underway on Friday, Scottie Scheffler leads top golf betting sites as favourite to wear the green jacket on Sunday at $5.50.

“We are disappointed our patrons could not fully enjoy today’s practice round,” said Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley, “but the safety of everyone at Augusta National is our highest priority.”

It’s not the first time Mother Nature has wreaked havoc on the hallowed turf. In 2023, spectators narrowly avoided disaster when 100-foot trees toppled during a storm.

And last year’s Hurricane Helene — with 200km/h winds — tore up parts of the course and left a swathe of destruction across Georgia.

Aussie Min Woo Lee who recently claimed his maiden PGA title in Houston is currently $34 with BetOnline to win this years Masters.

On Monday, local TV station WJBF warned of wind gusts, flash flooding, and even possible tornadoes. The club responded swiftly: parking lots were locked down, gates stayed shut, and fans were urged to steer clear of the course.

The disappointment was written across the faces of umbrella-clutching fans, many of whom had travelled halfway around the world for their bucket-list moment. Instead, they got a soaking, a refund promise, and a story for the ages.

Despite the soggy start, officials remain hopeful the 89th edition of The Masters will go ahead without further interruption — but Augusta has reminded us all once again that tradition is no match for a thundercloud.

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