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The stars aren’t the only thing to watch out for in the highly anticipated World Cup quarterfinal clash between Norway and England in Miami. The weather report is not far behind.
And as both teams prepare to meet on Saturday, July 11 at 5 pm ET for a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, the heat and humidity will play a role.
Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and the rest of the Three Lions squad are seeking their first semi-final appearance since 2018, but must overcome Erling Haaland and Norway, who have never reached the semi-finals at a men’s World Cup.
Both Kane and Haaland are in the fight for the Golden Boot for the tournament’s top scorer, along with the Argentine Lionel Messi and the Frenchman Kylian Mbappé.
What is the weather forecast for Norway vs. England?
According to FOX Weather, the forecast for the game in Miami is 90 degrees and partly cloudy. The ROWI (Risk of Climate Impact) is medium. A heat advisory is in effect until 7 pm local time on Saturday, July 11. The heat index is currently estimated at 108 degrees.
The high heat and humidity was one of the reasons why hydration breaks were introduced at the World Cup. Hydration breaks are mandatory three-minute stops at the midpoint of each half, allowing the current lineup to regroup on the bench for water.
What are the weather delay protocols at the World Cup?
At the World Cup, thunderstorms have been the main factor in weather delay protocols. Play is suspended immediately if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of a stadium and can only be resumed after 30 minutes have passed without a recurrence.
As in other sports, a countdown begins after a lightning strike, and there does not need to be other lightning strikes in the area after those conditions before play can resume safely. Any new lightning detection restarts the countdown, meaning delays can extend for several hours if storms persist.
FIFA does not have a fixed time limit after which a match must be abandoned, and each situation is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Has there been a climate delay in the World Cup?
The round of 16 match between Mexico and England in Mexico City on July 5 was delayed an hour due to weather. England defeated Mexico 3-2.
The round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador in Mexico City on June 30 was delayed an hour due to weather. Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 once the action began.
The group stage match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia on June 23 was suspended mid-match for two hours due to weather. France led Iraq 1-0 when the suspension occurred, and Les Bleus won 3-0 once play resumed.
