Japanese Grand Prix stewards have ruled that the order in free practice two will decide the grid for Sunday's race if the rescheduled qualifying period ends up being cancelled.
All action scheduled for Saturday at Suzuka has been cancelled as Japan braces itself for Typhoon Hagibis, which has also seen two matches at the Rugby World Cup cancelled.
Qualifying has been moved to Sunday morning, although Hagibis could yet cause damage and disruption on Sunday, when conditions are forecast to be clearer.
Having already lost a practice session, FP2 will now take on even more importance for teams.
A statement read: "In view of the inclement weather forecast for the weekend, and noting that the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations are silent on the subject, the Stewards have examined methods for establishing a grid for the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix, should weather conditions preclude holding the Qualifying Practice session.
"Should this eventuality come to pass, the Stewards will exercise their authority under Article 11.9.3.b of the International Sporting Code and direct that the grid for the Japanese Grand Prix will be established based on the Second Practice Session Classification, with any penalties applied as necessary."