The impact of Hurricane Helene in the United States now extends to triathlon, with IRONMAN Chattanooga now affected by devastating weather conditions.

Several states were devastated by the storm, leading to states of emergency being declared in Florida, Georgia, and North and South Carolina.

As Helene moves inland, Tennessee will also have to bear the brunt of the conditions as Sunday’s endurance race in Chattanooga is now affected.

Officials have already decided to cancel the swimming, meaning the pros (including Britain’s Joe Skipper) and age groupers will start their day with a time trial cycling leg instead.

IRONMAN Chattanooga Statement

A statement on the IRONMAN Chattanooga Facebook page said: “As we monitor the impacts of Hurricane Helene, weather conditions in the region are expected to change dramatically over the next 24 hours.

“Based on the forecast of significant rainfall and increased flow rates in the Tennessee River, IRONMAN and local city officials have determined that in the interest of the athletes and water safety, it is necessary to cancel the swimming portion of the IRONMAN Chattanooga Triathlon on Sunday. Therefore, the race will begin with a cycling time trial start.

“IRONMAN has rigorous standards for swimming safety that we expect to be exceeded, including water flow rate and water quality. Three to five inches of rain is expected to fall in the area, significantly increasing water levels and creating additional runoff three times the limit considered safe for swimming in the Tennessee River. Additionally, IRONMAN would not be able to employ several of the water safety devices necessary for safe swimming.

“As athlete safety is our top priority, we thank you for your understanding given these extenuating conditions.”

Schedule for IRONMAN Chattanooga

The updated schedule for Sunday in Chattanooga (all local times) is as follows:

• 6:30 a.m. – Transition area opens
• 8:00 a.m. – Men’s Pro Bike Time Trial begins
• 8:22 a.m. – Start of the women’s pro bike time trial
• 8:42 a.m. – Age group cycling time trial begins