Malaysian Grand Prix 2013: Heat and Rain Likely to Factor into Who Will Win

The people of Kuala Lumpur have much too be proud of when it comes to their city. After all, it is world renowned for being one of Asia’s most eco-friendly cities. Kuala Lumpur is also home to one architectural world’s most interesting buildings—the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers. The Towers were designed to mirror the country's high-tech ambitions while fusing stainless steel in a way that pays respect to the countries Moorish heritage.  

Malaysians are also proud of their tropical weather, which draws millions of tourists from all over the world to the country each year. Daytime temperatures rise above 30 degrees Celsius  (86°F) year-round and night-time temperatures rarely drop below 20 Celsius (68°F).

Come Sunday, the country’s biggest annual sports event will take place at Sepang International Circuit, where a crowd of over 130,000 will gather to watch the Malaysian Grand Prix.

It is only fitting that the massive crowd and the drivers they come to watch will be affected by that famous tropical weather.

Sunday’s forecast for Kuala Lumpur has a high temperature of 32 degrees Celsius (91°F), with a heat index of over 105. There is a 60 percent chance of rain in the forecast, making for a very steamy day.

The combination of the heat and the humidity will cause issues for both the drivers and their cars. The drivers will have in-cockpit temperatures in excess of 125 degrees. Meanwhile, you can bet that each of one of the technical teams will be working around the clock taking into account every possible weather-related challenge they might face come Sunday. 

There is no doubt that the teams will concentrate more on the engines, with the high temperatures being the first priority. However, if it is wet as expected, then tires will become more of a factor for Sunday’s race.

As beautiful and exotic as Kuala Lumpur can be, you can bet that the winner of the 2013 Malaysian Grand Prix will be the car that has the ability overcome the weather and a world-class race course.