Extreme weather warning in Florida raises risk of delay for England-Norway quarter-final
The heat index approaching 45 degrees Celsius and the threat of storms in Florida could impact the start time of the World Cup quarter-final.
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A weather alert has been issued ahead of the 2026 World Cup quarter-final between England and Norway, scheduled to be played in Florida. The expected extreme heat wave and the possibility of thunderstorms in the state have raised questions about whether the match will begin at its scheduled time.
Florida-based meteorologist Matt Devitt announced in a post on his X account that he had issued the “first-ever warning for a severe heat wave that will affect the entire state of Florida over the next three days” due to the sharp rise in temperature and humidity.
Stating that the heat index could reach between 40 and 46 degrees, Devitt warned, “It will feel like 40 to 46 degrees, stay cool!” According to forecasts, the heat index is expected to approach 45 degrees at match time.
LIGHTNING PROTOCOL MAY BE ACTIVATED
The risk of storms, as well as the heat, could affect the match schedule. According to meteorological assessments, there is a possibility of thunderstorms in the vicinity of the stadium before and during the match.
If the early warning system detects lightning within the stadium boundaries, FIFA protocol may require the game or kickoff time to be delayed by 30 minutes for each new lightning strike. This is considered critical for both the health of the players and the safety of the fans in the stands.
Weather-related disruptions have occurred previously in the tournament. Due to bad weather, the start of the round of 16 match between Mexico and England was delayed, and the second half of the Iraq-France match in the group stage also began late.
The final decision for the match between England and Norway is expected to be made based on updated weather assessments and security protocols on match day.