Vidalia — When the survivors line up for their walk around the Relay for Life track Friday night the temperature could be near 87 degrees.

Or it could be raining.

But Relay for Life organizers don’t want the weather to deter anyone from coming, they just want everyone to take proper precautions.

This will be the first year in a decade that the relay has been in June. Typically it is in May, but high Mississippi River waters delayed the event this year.

Organizer Janis Holder said she expects the show to go on rain or shine on Friday evening. She said that she and the other organizers have plans for both heat and thunderstorms, but are more concerned about high temperatures affecting people, particularly the cancer survivors.

If the skies remain clear, Holder advises people to wear loose clothing, remember sunscreen and drink plenty of water before arriving to the festivities. Fans will be set up for the survivor reception at 5 p.m., but not supplied for the individual stands. Those running a private tent will need to supply their own drinks, fans and any other cooling devices, Holder said.

Though there will be paramedics at various first aid stations armed with cool packs, ice water IV drips for the most severe cases, those who do feel light headed should immediately rest for a couple of minutes, Holder said.

With so many people in such a small space, people should be cautious about the collective body heat of participants, she said. This could make the event seem much hotter than a thermometer shows.

In accordance, Holder requests people not to push themselves too hard. This includes people setting up for Friday’s fundraiser and those partaking in the Relay for Life. The event’s organizers hope that people will allow themselves plenty of time to set up their tents so that workers can break often.

If the skies open Friday evening, nothing will change. Holder said that the event had continued through rain previously and will continue to do so.

Last year’s relay occurred in ankle-deep mud, she said.

However, if lightening does strike before relay setup begins organizers and the Vidalia Police Department will make a decision about the night with safety in mind.

If a bolt appears while setup is going on and it is enough to cancel, the American Cancer Society will make a radio announcement.

If a thunderstorm occurs while people are walking, the Vidalia Police Department will decide what to do.

The events start at 5 p.m. with a survivor reception dinner. At 6:45, participants are invited to start walking for the cause.