Thunder and Lightning:

The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) position is that if you can hear thunder you are within reach of lightning and that referees must protect the safety of all participants by stopping game activities quickly, so that participants and spectators may retire to a safer place before the lightning threat becomes significant.

Applying the 30-30 rule is recommended and to wait 30 minutes or more after hearing the last thunder before leaving shelter.

The AYSO National Referee Commission position regarding severe weather states: It is said that lightning can strike from a clear blue sky that is within a ten mile radius of a storm. It is therefore strongly recommended that practices and games be terminated immediately upon hearing thunder or seeing lightning.  The weather looks to improving as the evening moves on, but keep your ears and eyes open for signs of bad weather. We want to keep the kids safe!