Wildfire smoke continues to hang over New York City in the hours leading up to the World Cup final, though the prospect of cancellation or a delayed kick-off seems highly unlikely. Spain are due to face Argentina on Sunday in the World Cup showpiece at MetLife Stadium on the outskirts of New York City.
Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality Concerns
Weather conditions have taken a turn for the worse in the days leading up to the match due to wildfires smouldering hundreds of miles away in Canada. Smoke has been blown well south of the border and has engulfed New York in an eerie orange haze, prompting local officials to issue a public health warning. Residents have been asked to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid vigorous physical activity.
National guard members have been seen handing out masks to help residents deal with the smoke. One expert told the New York Post that spending a day outdoors could have the same effect as smoking ten cigarettes, due to particles in the smoke that can enter one's bloodstream.
Potential for Postponement or Delay
Gianni Infantino is set to hold crisis talks with White House officials this week to assess the level of danger. There is precedent for wildfire smoke forcing football matches to be postponed: Chicago Fire vs Vancouver Whitecaps in MLS was called off earlier this week, as was an NWSL match in New York on Wednesday.
Weather Forecast for the Final
As things stand, smoke is continuing to linger ahead of the World Cup final, which will get underway at 3pm local time on Sunday, July 19. Air quality was still measured as 'unhealthy' on Saturday afternoon but is steadily improving as of Sunday morning.
Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House World Cup task force, said in a statement last week: “Testing will be administered if it is necessary. We’ve had the National Weather Service sitting with FIFA from the very beginning of this tournament. I think the good news right now, knock on wood, is it looks like this weather is going to clear by Sunday, and so hopefully it’s a non-issue at this point. We’re going to talk about it more this afternoon into the evening and keep monitoring it and see. Ultimately, we want to make sure that it’s safe and healthy for not just the players, but obviously the fans that are going to be out there as well.”
The day of the final itself will be sunny and hot, with 27°C temperatures and cloudless skies expected at kick-off. A second hydration break could be added if air quality is deemed poor enough.
Severe Weather Policies
Standard severe weather policies will apply in the event of thunder and lightning. US policy on extreme weather at outside sporting events dictates that a match must be delayed or suspended if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Players, coaches and officials must all return inside, while fans are told to evacuate the stands and shelter safely. The area in question must be completely clear of lightning for a full 30 minutes before a game can safely resume.
