There's a slight chance of scattered showers today, but don't worry, Braves fans. The weather isn't likely to have a major effect on the team's home opener. Here's what you need to know if you're headed to Turner Field for tonight's game against the Mets.
Leave the rain gear at home, but a light jacket might feel good:
Channel 2 meteorologist Karen Minton is predicting partly to mostly cloudy skies, with a "chance of a sprinkle, but it should not be a game stopper." Temperatures should be in the low 60s at the beginning of the game, cooling into the mid- to upper 50s by the ninth inning. It will also be breezy, Minton said, with 10 to 15 mph winds.
Heavy traffic likely around the ballpark:
A large crowd is expected, so leave early to avoid what is sure to be heavy traffic, which will be compounded by a Hawks home game and the normal rush hour exodus from downtown. Parking lots will open at 2 p.m. and the gates to Turner Field will open two hours later.
About those parking lots:
All Turner Field parking lots will be "permit only," so fans must pre-purchase parking passes at www.braves.com/parking.
Beat the parking hassles and take MARTA:
MARTA's Braves shuttle begins running 90 minutes prior to the first pitch from the Five Points station to Turner Field. Return shuttles run for one hour after the final out.
Oh say, can you see:
Tonight's National Anthem will be performed by Sugarland's Kristian Bush, who will also perform before the game in the Fan Plaza.
There's a new home run champion of all time:
A special pregame ceremony recognizing the 40th anniversary of Hank Aaron's record-breaking home run begins at 6:15 p.m.
Next up for the Braves:
If you can't make it to tonight's opener, the homestand continues with games against the Mets at 7:10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. The Nationals come to town for a weekend series of games Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon. Weather shouldn't be an issue for any of those games, as sunny skies are forecast through Sunday.
For more opening day information, go here.
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