Play suspended for the day

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(Michael Holahan/Staff)

1:35

Because of severe weather in the area, play is suspended and the course is closed for the remainder of the day.

The Par-3 contest was not completed and no winner was declared.

12:55: The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for the Augusta area until 8 p.m.

12:50: The Par-3 Contest is underway at rainy Augusta National. Webb Simpson is the leader at 2-under-par for four holes. Former Masters champions Bubba Watson, Mike Weir and Jose Maria Olazabal are even par.

12:00 p.m.

Gates will reopen to patrons at 12:30 p.m. The Par-3 Contest will begin at the same time.

11:30 a.m.

The sun is coming out again at Augusta National. No word yet if the course will reopen soon.

10:15 a.m.

The horn just sounded at Augusta National Golf Club. Patrons are leaving the grounds, while golfers are now seeking shelter.

A fast-moving storm cell is headed from Milledgeville, Ga., to Augusta.

8:30 a.m.

It is currently clear and overcast in Augusta. That is expected to change later this morning. A massive storm front in middle Georgia is headed this direction.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to reach the course by 10 a.m. By noon, there’s a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

This afternoon, thunderstorms are expected to be severe, with conditions favorable for heavy rain, frequent lightning, hail and damaging winds.

In other words, it is doubtful the Par-3 Contest will be held today.