OBERSTDORF, Germany — Heavy rain and strong winds have forced the cancellation of the fourth stage of cross-country Tour de Ski races.

The International Ski Federation (FIS) says the course at Oberstdorf in the Bavarian Alps was "not safe for the athletes" and the competition was halted on Wednesday after the ladies' prologue before the men began.

Thursday's mass start races, the fifth stage of seven altogether, are still scheduled to go ahead despite the forecast for more rain.

Dario Cologna and Ingvild Flugstad Oestberg lead the overall standings.