Fog delays U.S. Open, play resumes just after 9 a.m.

Heavy fog delayed the first round of the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on Thursday morning, chasing some of the world’s top golfers off the course shortly after the tournament began.

Play was suspended at 7:05 a.m., a half hour after the first group teed off at 6:35 a.m. The foghorn announcing the resumption of play sounded at approximately 9:05 a.m.

The players spent time at the putting green and driving range to stay warm during the stoppage.

The soupy skies are expected to linger throughout the morning, with a chance of rain around noon. Some sun is forecast to make an appearance around 2 p.m. Temperatures should rise to the low to mid 70s.

The poor weather didn’t put a damper on enthusiasm. At the shuttle bus in Calverton, around 1,300 fans had already walked through the screening gate, according to a volunteer keeping count.

North Fork fans can also take the Montauk Line on the LIRR — which hasn’t been much better — to the temporary station set up at Shinnecock Hills to avoid the gridlock on County Road 39.

The MTA warned of significant eastbound rail delays for those headed to Shinnecock Hills. Morning trains were running roughly 20 to 40 minutes late.

About 40,000 fans are expected for each of the four championship rounds, which conclude Sunday, Father’s Day.