England's crucial World Cup knockout tie against Mexico is being moved forward to avoid a severe storm heading towards Mexico City's Azteca Stadium. The decision comes after meteorologists warned of lightning, flash floods, and torrential rain that could disrupt the match.
Fans Nicknamed Storm 'Hurri-Kane'
Fans have already nicknamed the incoming weather system 'Hurri-Kane' on social media. Mexican meteorologist Orlando Aurquia of Meteored Mexico warned that conditions this weekend will remain 'favourable for the development of scattered storms,' with some being 'strong' and leaving 'significant accumulations of rain in a short time, as has happened in recent days.'
Forecast Details: Lightning and Flooding Risks
Aurquia stated that most of the capital can expect between 10mm and 20mm of rain, but 'some areas may exceed 25mm.' He added: 'The possibility of localised flooding, waterlogging on roads and strong currents will remain.' The biggest storms are expected between 3pm and 9pm, bringing frequent lightning, possible hail, and wind gusts exceeding 35km/h. Southern, western, and south-western districts of Mexico City are expected to be worst hit, with accumulations of more than 30mm possible over the weekend.
Lightning poses the biggest headache for FIFA. Under safety rules, play cannot start or continue if lightning is detected within eight miles (13km) of the stadium. Once a strike is recorded, there must be a 30-minute wait before the match can begin or resume, and every fresh lightning strike resets the countdown.
Other Matches Affected
Despite the forecast, flights are not expected to be impacted. Brazil's clash with Norway on Sunday evening is also likely to be moved from 9pm to a slightly later kick-off time to allow fans to watch both games without disruption. The exact time for the last-16 clash at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey has not yet been determined.
