Detroit/Tampa Bay game: Lightning and thunder, but game continues

[JHSump]

I was watching the Sunday night ESPN game (July 6, 2014). Bottom of the 9th, lightning and loud thunder. (Along with rain.) Game continued, even through a pitching change.  Eventually ending, maybe 10 minutes after the first lightning/thunder.

 

I was surprised the game continued. I would have instantly suspended play in any event I officiate.

 

What are the "rules/procedures," if any, for MiLB/MLB in regards to lightning?

 

 

[Old Skool]

They must play until lightning is right on stadium or something.  Was at Memphis Redbirds (AAA) last night and it was the same situation.  Lightning all over & they played until the rain began to fall & tarp had to go down on.  This happened twice.  When rain stopped 2nd time there was cloud to ground lightning all over so delayed about 15 more minutes before it subsided.  They must have some high tech toys that tell them how close the lightning strikes are or something.  

[johnnyg08]

They have a meteorologist on staff with state-of-the-art radar to tell them where exactly the lightning is located.  They have the technology and the manpower to continue playing.  

[Jimurray]

I was watching the Sunday night ESPN game (July 6, 2014). Bottom of the 9th, lightning and loud thunder. (Along with rain.) Game continued, even through a pitching change.  Eventually ending, maybe 10 minutes after the first lightning/thunder.

 

I was surprised the game continued. I would have instantly suspended play in any event I officiate.

 

What are the "rules/procedures," if any, for MiLB/MLB in regards to lightning?

I think the rule is to read the disclaimer on the back of the ticket. 

[rjt6]

The ESPN broadcasters were saying they continued because there were 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th.

 

They also said that if they were in the 5th inning or something like that, they would've stopped play.