Start of Cardinals-Cubs game at Wrigley Field delayed by thunderstorm

Wrigley Field opened its gates Friday 90 minutes before first pitch of a showdown series between the Cardinals and, as is customary, but with multiple lightning strikes visible in the area, the ballpark’s video board carried an admonition to clear the seating bowl.

About 1:40 p.m., St. Louis Cardinals pitchers playing catch in the outfield quickly sought shelter as a thunderstorm dumped blinding rain on the premises.

First pitch Friday is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. As of 1:45 p.m., there has been no announcement that will change, but a stream of water was cascading from the roof behind home plate onto the seats below.