Storms could become unexpected opponent

Imagine Lionel Messi lining up a free kick in the 89th minute of a World Cup match, only for the referee to stop play and send everyone off the pitch because of a thunderstorm miles away.
That scenario is a very real possibility at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, report agencies.
While fans usually worry about injuries, tactics and controversial refereeing decisions, weather could become an unexpected headline throughout the tournament. FIFA will be required to follow United States lightning safety protocols, meaning matches can be suspended whenever lightning is detected within eight miles of a stadium.
The weather rule FIFA cannot ignore
Under the guidelines used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), play cannot resume until 30 minutes have passed since the last lightning strike. If another strike is detected during that period, the countdown starts again.
In simple terms, a World Cup match could be delayed for hours if a thunderstorm refuses to move away. FIFA has confirmed that there is no fixed maximum delay time. Instead, every situation will be assessed individually, leaving open the possibility of lengthy interruptions during the tournament.
Which games are under threat?
Host cities in the south east of the United States and the Gulf Coast regions are most likely to face interruptions. It is the height of thunderstorm season.
Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Miami and New Jersey in particular regularly experience electrical storms. Mexico City and Monterrey in Mexico will also be susceptible.
But the stadiums in Atlanta, Dallas and Houston have fixed or retractable roofs which can reduce the impact.
England's first match against Croatia in Dallas is indoors, but the Three Lions then face Ghana in Boston and Panama in New Jersey. All three of Scotland's matches could be impacted. Steve Clarke's men face Haiti and Morocco in Boston before taking on Brazil in Miami.
Why were no games delayed at 1994 World Cup?
Many of the matches at the 1994 World Cup were played in the blistering daytime heat.
The match between the Republic of Ireland and Mexico in Orlando, Florida saw air temperatures about 40.5C, while down at pitch level they reached as high as 49C (120F).
Astonishingly, at that tournament Fifa prevented players from drinking water on the field of play, much
to the annoyance of Republic of Ireland boss Jack Charlton.