Severe thunderstorms have impacted the New York metropolitan area, bringing flash floods and causing disruptions just 24 hours before the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Torrential downpours have brought parts of New York City to a standstill, with forecasts indicating the potential for tornadoes in New Jersey, winds exceeding 65 miles per hour, and further flooding after the region experienced up to three inches of rainfall in a single hour. The severe weather has prompted concerns for FIFA, as the tournament has previously seen disruptions due to weather, including England's round of 16 match against Mexico.
The adverse conditions led to the cancellation of Spain's final training session. The team was scheduled to train at Red Bull's New York facility but their session was postponed due to thunderstorms and ultimately called off. The Spanish FA stated that the training at the Melanie Lane Training Ground in New Jersey was suspended following the United States Storm Safety Protocol, and the players proceeded with an indoor activation session.
Argentina's team also trained indoors due to the weather but were able to conduct their session on the grass.
While the forecast is expected to improve for Sunday's final, FIFA's severe weather protocol requires matches to be suspended if lightning strikes within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Play cannot resume until there has been no electrical discharge for 30 minutes.
Spain advanced to the final after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina secured their spot by beating England 2-1 in their late-stage match, continuing their pursuit of a second consecutive title.