Severe weather halts Monday practice at the Masters

The Masters got off to an inauspicious -- and wet -- start on Monday.

With severe weather approaching the area, the Augusta National Golf Club suspended practice rounds before midday.

“For everyone’s safety, we have asked patrons to clear the grounds and take shelter accordingly,” officials said in a prepared statement.

Early in the day, mist shrouded the course and some golfers showed up early, mindful that their sessions might be cut short.

The forecast calls for heavy thunderstorms through Monday night, with some clearing on Tuesday. Cloudy skies should continue through the middle of the week but there’s potential good news on the horizon -- the weather could turn sunny for Thursday’s first round.

david.wharton@latimes.com

Twitter: @latimeswharton