Weather 
LOS ANGELES () — Thousands of runners are making their way through the L.A. Marathon, but the heat could make it a tough race.
Organizers are offering runners a shorter path to the finish line if conditions get too tough.
The 26.2 mile race began at 7 a.m. at Dodger Stadium and passes through different neighborhoods and iconic landmarks like Hollywood.
Participants will also run through downtown Los Angeles, Echo Park, Beverly Hills and more — ending in Century City.
Road closures are in effect along the route. An interactive map details the street closures you need to know about. A list of the closures is also available here.
No freeways will see closures, but motorists should expect delays as some ramps along the 101, 405 and 110 freeways will be unavailable. A list of freeway ramp closures is available here.
The hot weather forecasted for Sunday has prompted marathon organizers to implement some safety changes to the event. Runners will be given the option to finish at the 18-mile mark and still receive a finisher’s medal, in case conditions get too hot.
The “Race Day Weather” portion marathon’s website informs runners, “If you’re having a tough day and want to end your race before 26.2, you can choose to take the turn at Mile 18 and head into the finish line early. You do not need to notify anyone of your decision and can opt to take this route at any time. This option is available for this year only.
“How to find it: Just past Mile 18 on Santa Monica Boulevard, look for the Charity Half Finish signage on the left side of the road. Signs, cones, and barricades will be in place to help direct you to this exit and toward the finish line.”
“You will still receive your finisher medal and any challenge medal you’ve earned, and your official race results will be updated at a later date to reflect your time and mileage. There is no shame in making a smart decision for your body.”
It is expected that by midday, temperatures will be in the 80s.
Many runners told 7 that they have been training for months to take on this race and are determined to finish the 26.2 miles.
The race is being run a week earlier than originally planned to avoid a conflict with next Sunday’s Oscars.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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