What Miami’s new “major heat” warning means for World Cup games with worries about England vs Norway matches
The City of Miami has issued an urgent ‘major heat risk’ warning just before the World Cup quarter-final between Norway and England. The match is set to start at 5pm local time (10pm UK) on Saturday at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
A heat advisory is in effect from 11am to 7pm local time, with temperatures expected to reach up to 33°C during the game. The main concern is the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WGBT), which takes into account heat, humidity, wind, and sunlight. When WGBT goes above 28°C, FIFPRO (the players’ union) suggests delaying or postponing the match. For this game, the WGBT is predicted to be between 29 and 32°C, according to BBC Sport.
Right now, there’s no sign the game will be delayed. There are also worries about thunderstorms, as lightning can force a game pause for 30 minutes if it strikes within 8 to 10 miles of the stadium. However, the latest forecasts predict only a 43% chance of light rain around kick-off.
The City of Miami feels the heat situation is serious enough to issue this rare ‘major heat risk’ warning for much of South Florida today. They advise people to limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours and to stay hydrated by wearing lightweight clothes and spending time in air-conditioned places.
Most of Miami is under moderate to major heat risk, with some areas at the highest risk. The Hard Rock Stadium falls into the major risk category.
England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, shared in a press conference that the team has been preparing for the heat all week, even before arriving in Miami. He said, “We spent time in the heat today and this week to get ready.” Tuchel hopes their training gives them an advantage despite the tough weather. He added, “We knew it would be tough stepping off the plane in Miami, but hopefully a bit of rain will help. We have worked hard to prepare, and that effort hasn’t been wasted.”