(COLORADO SPRINGS, CO) – As the U.S. Senior Open is in full swing, many eyes are on the leaderboard, but another factor at play this week is the weather.

From the ball’s trajectory to the condition of the greens, weather can change everything. Golf is a sport built on precision and accuracy, and when conditions shift, so does the strategy. Let’s take a look at what makes for ideal weather conditions and what makes for less-than-ideal conditions for golf.

When it comes to great golf weather, a few key factors would be most ideal for play:

Clear Skies: Good visibility is essential

Dry Weather: Moisture on the greens can slow down the ball, altering its roll and speed.

Mild Temperatures (the sweet spot being 65–75°F): Colder air is denser, which can reduce ball travel distance. 

Low Humidity: Drier air offers less resistance, allowing the ball to travel farther

On the flip side, certain weather elements can turn a game of golf into more of a challenge than it needs to be. Here are a few: 

Rain: Moisture can affect ball roll and make greens wet and soft, leading to unpredictable hits.

Strong Winds: Gusty conditions can drastically affect a ball’s direction, especially on long shots.

Thunderstorms: Not only dangerous due to lightning concerns, but they also lead to game delays and course evacuations. (which we do not want this weekend at the Broadmoor)

Extreme Heat: High temperatures can lead to dehydration and fatigue, impacting a player’s performance and focus.

As the U.S. Senior Open continues this week, all eyes will be on the forecast. With any luck, players and fans will enjoy sunshine, mild temperatures, and low winds, the perfect blend for great golf.