NASCAR fans at Michigan International Speedway experienced a frustrating start to the highly anticipated FireKeepers Casino 400 on Sunday. The race was halted due to heavy rain shortly after a few pace laps were completed, preventing the green flag from waving as scheduled at 2:30 p.m.

As the cars were brought to pit road and covered, the rain began as a light sprinkle before intensifying around 2:50 p.m. However, there was a glimmer of hope as the rain ceased just after 3 p.m., prompting the use of jet dryers to dry the track's surface. By 3:40 p.m., the asphalt was mostly dry, but another round of rain arrived later, leading to another round of track drying.

According to the National Weather Service, the chance of precipitation fluctuated throughout the course of the delay. At 4:15 p.m., the likelihood of rain stood at 54%, rising to 64% at 5 p.m., and then tapering off slightly to 60% by 6 p.m. However, there was some optimism as the chance of rain dropped to 41% at 7 p.m. and further decreased to 19% by 8 p.m.

Saturday saw its own share of rain-related challenges at Michigan International Speedway, with four delays impacting the day's events. Cup qualifying was ultimately canceled, but the Xfinity Series race managed to reach its conclusion.

Adding to the complexity of the situation was the absence of lights at MIS, necessitating that races be completed before sunset. With the sunset scheduled for 8:31 p.m., time was of the essence for NASCAR officials to ensure a timely race outcome.

Despite the weather setbacks, the starting grid positions were determined based on a formula after Saturday's rained-out qualifying session. Denny Hamlin secured the pole position, followed by Tyler Reddick in second, Christopher Bell in third, Kyle Larson in fourth, and Bubba Wallace in fifth. Chase Elliott, Ross Chastain, Ryan Blaney, William Byron, and Austin Dillon rounded out the top ten.

Michigan natives were also eagerly anticipated, with Carson Hocevar starting in 11th, Brad Keselowski in 15th, and Erik Jones in 28th.

As fans patiently awaited news on the delay, NASCAR officials worked diligently to analyze the weather conditions and strategize the best course of action. Updates will be provided as the situation unfolds at the FireKeepers Casino 400.

Sources:
- Taylor DesOrmeau | tdesorme@mlive.com