Weather Alerts Issued for Multiple 2026 World Cup Venues

The first weekend of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has drawn heat, tornado and lightning warnings from government agencies across multiple host regions. The tournament, which began June 11 and features 48 teams playing 104 matches over five weeks, has already seen several games completed, including a 4-1 win by the U.S. team over Paraguay. Similar heat warnings cover areas of Canada and Mexico.

NPR reported that more than one-third of matches face elevated heat risk. Sunday fixtures in Texas between Japan and the Netherlands and between Germany and Curaçao are among those affected. Fox 29 Philadelphia reported additional heat and storm risks for fans attending the Ivory Coast-Ecuador match at Philadelphia Stadium on Sunday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration stated that any match must be halted if lightning is detected within eight miles of a stadium.

FIFA has introduced three-minute hydration breaks during matches and limited outdoor games during peak heat hours. Kickoff times have been adjusted in some markets, and matches in warmer conditions have been assigned to covered stadiums when possible.

The agency also said it is committed to protecting the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff. Before the tournament, medical experts had noted risks to workers, players and spectators from the forecast heat. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has increased enforcement of heat-safety rules at venues.