The anticipated World Cup quarterfinal match between Norway and England in Miami on Saturday, July 11, will be played under conditions of significant heat and humidity.
The game is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET, with temperatures predicted to be in the 90s and partly cloudy skies. The Risk of Weather Impact (ROWI) is rated as medium. A heat advisory is in effect for the area until 7 p.m. local time on Saturday. The heat index is expected to reach 108 degrees Fahrenheit.
High heat and humidity have been a factor in the tournament, leading to the introduction of mandatory hydration breaks. These three-minute stoppages occur at the midpoint of each half, allowing players to rehydrate.
Weather Delay Protocols
At the World Cup, thunderstorms are the primary cause for weather-related delays. Play is suspended immediately if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of a stadium. Play can only resume after a 30-minute period without any further lightning occurrences. If new lightning is detected, the 30-minute countdown resets. FIFA does not have a fixed time limit for abandoning a match; each situation is evaluated individually.
Previous weather delays have impacted the tournament. The Mexico vs. England round of 16 game on July 5 was delayed by one hour due to weather. Similarly, the Mexico vs. Ecuador round of 32 game on June 30 experienced a one-hour delay. A group stage match between France and Iraq on June 23 was suspended for two hours due to weather conditions.