If you're new to checking weather for golf, these are the numbers that matter — and how to play smart when they shift.
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Wind speed & direction
The single most underrated factor. A 10 mph headwind costs ~10–15 yards on a 7-iron. Crosswinds turn straight shots into pull-hooks or slices.
- 0–8 mph: Play your normal shot.
- 9–15 mph: Take one extra club into the wind, one less downwind.
- 16–25 mph: Two clubs more into wind, swing easier ("when it's breezy, swing easy"), aim for low shots.
- 25+ mph: Tough day — keep ball low, putt from off the green when possible.
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Lightning & storms
The one rule that matters: if you hear thunder, get off the course immediately. Lightning can strike from a storm 10+ miles away.
- Most courses sound a horn — stop play, head to the clubhouse or a designated shelter.
- Don't shelter under trees or in open carts.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming.
- Most courses will issue a rain check — ask the pro shop.
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UV index & heat
You're outside for 4+ hours with no shade. Sunburn and dehydration ruin rounds — and skin.
- UV 6+: SPF 30+ at the first tee, reapply at the turn.
- Wear a hat, polarized UV sunglasses, and a long-sleeve sun shirt if 8+.
- Heat 85°F+: drink 6–8 oz water every 2–3 holes; consider an electrolyte tab.
- Heat 95°F+: cooling towel, ice in your hat, walk slow between shots.
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Dew, frost & rain
Early morning rounds often have frost delays — courses won't let carts on frozen turf because it damages the grass. Dew slows fairways and adds spin.
- Frost (temps near 32°F at sunrise): expect a 30–90 min delay. Call the pro shop.
- Heavy dew: ball won't roll out — club up on approach shots.
- Rain 30%+: pack rain gloves (yes, they actually work better when wet), towel, waterproof jacket.
- Wet greens: putts roll slower — be more aggressive.
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Sunrise & sunset
A round of 18 holes takes 4 to 4½ hours. Tee off so you finish at least 30 minutes before sunset, or you'll be putting in the dark.
- Earliest practical tee time: ~30 min after sunrise (greens need to thaw/dry).
- Latest 18-hole tee time: 4½ hrs before sunset.
- Latest 9-hole tee time: 2¼ hrs before sunset.
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Temperature & ball flight
Cold air is denser — the ball flies shorter. Hot air = longer carries. The rule of thumb: ~2 yards per 10°F shift.
- Below 50°F: ball flies 5–8% shorter. Wear layers, keep balls in your pocket to stay warm.
- 50–70°F: ideal range — most yardages on the course are calibrated here.
- 85°F+: ball flies further — be careful clubbing down.
- Altitude: add ~10% distance per 5,000 ft above sea level.
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Humidity & dew point
High humidity makes the air feel heavy but barely affects ball flight. Where it matters: your grip and your stamina.
- Humid days: extra towel, rosin bag, or grip enhancer to keep clubs from slipping.
- Dew point above 70°F = oppressive — hydrate aggressively.
- Greens often play softer in high humidity.
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Pollen & air quality
If you have allergies or asthma, check pollen counts and AQI (air quality index) before heading out.
- High tree pollen (spring): take antihistamine 1 hr before tee time.
- AQI 100+: consider rescheduling if you have respiratory issues.
- Wildfire smoke: AQI 150+ is unsafe for prolonged outdoor exertion.