England's World Cup quarter-final against Norway could face disruption from sweltering temperatures and storms in Miami. The temperature is expected to hit 34C on the weekend, with lightning also anticipated. Due to high humidity, conditions are predicted to feel nearer to 43C when the fixture commences. The BBC's weather forecast also suggests thunderstorms shortly before kick-off and throughout the match.
Previous Match Delays Raise Concerns
FIFA were compelled to postpone England's last-16 clash against Mexico by an hour due to similar weather concerns. There are worries that the encounter against Norway could experience similar difficulties, with a cancellation or delay technically feasible if conditions become too dangerous. The game currently starts at 10pm on Saturday night UK time and will not end until well past midnight if extra time and penalties are necessary. A further delay by even an hour would keep football fans up until the early hours once more. England v Mexico ultimately kicked off around 2am in the UK and concluded around 4am on Monday morning, reports the Manchester Evening News.
FIFA Weather Protocols
FIFA protocol requires a minimum 30-minute postponement in the event of thunderstorms, with the governing body adhering to regulations set by local authorities throughout the tournament. This means that should any lightning strike be detected within eight miles of a stadium, the match must be halted. FIFA must follow guidance from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States. Their protocols stipulate that players must vacate the pitch and spectators withdraw indoors, away from their seats.
Additionally, officials will take WBGT (Wet-bulb globe temperature) measurements 90 minutes prior to kick-off and once more an hour before matches at stadiums regarded as particularly hot or humid. FIFA's competition regulations permit fixtures to be delayed if conditions are judged too hazardous for play.
Previous Experience in Florida
England encountered similar difficulties the previous occasion they travelled to Florida while preparing for the World Cup. Their final pre-tournament friendly against Costa Rica kicked off an hour behind schedule owing to heavy rainfall and lightning at Orlando City's venue, which is located in the same state. Thomas Tuchel told ITV at the time: "It gives us a little taste of what can happen in the tournament. We were aware of that before, now we experience it." He added: "It's no problem. It should not be an excuse to lose our mood or patience or to lose our hunger to play the game."
