There are many factors in play during a sports match from the coaching staff to the players competing to home-field advantage to equipment. However, one oft-overlooked factor is weather conditions. While the ideal conditions for a game would be sunny skies at a comfortable temperature, athletes cannot always depend on perfect settings. Rain, cold temperatures, wind, and humidity can all affect athletes’ performance. While these are conditions that Californians often do not have to worry about, the high temperatures southern California experiences can play a big role as well.

Higher temperatures have two main effects on the body: higher body heat and dehydration. According to the University of Connecticut, if outside temperatures are too high compared to the body’s temperatures, three out of the four processes used to lower body temperature become ineffective: radiation, convection, and conduction. The only method left is evaporation, which helps explain why humans sweat more when it is hot. For athletes participating in strenuous physical activities under these conditions, the effects can be even worse. Staying hydrated during hot days is important so the body does not lose too much water. While athletes are usually better prepared for performing under high temperatures, even the best of them can sometimes suffer ill effects. During the 2014 NBA Finals, LeBron James had to sit on the bench for most of the fourth quarter due to cramps from dehydration. The CDC has also reported that heat illnesses are the leading cause of death for high school athletes, making the issue all the more critical.

On the other side of the spectrum, colder temperatures can also affect performance and prove deadly. The same cooling mechanisms of radiation, convection, conduction, and evaporation which are crucial for regulating body heat can turn into negatives during cold weather. On a harmless level, athletes will feel cold and experience effects such as shivering and impaired motor functions. This will decrease performance and cause them to move more sluggishly. Taken to the extremes, hypothermia becomes a major concern and can be life-threatening. Snow and ice-related sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and hockey are more likely to run into cold temperatures and the dangers associated with them.

There are many steps that can be taken to minimize the risks that extreme temperatures and weather bring to sports. The most important is preparedness. In hot weather, staying hydrated can be a life-saver. Cold weather negatives can also be minimized purely through the use of standard sports equipment, like gloves. In addition, athletes who practice under hot or cold conditions can condition themselves so that when game day comes, they are ready to deliver. When athletes and the administrative staff work together to address these concerns, competitions continue with safety and minimum danger for the participants.