Thunderstorms and scorching heat wave threaten next year’s FIFA World Cup in the US

By | June 30, 2025
Extreme heat and storm risks for 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, climate risks are grabbing headlines. Intense heatwaves and unpredictable thunderstorms could disrupt the tournament in the U.S. Many cities on the schedule are known for extreme summer weather. These conditions pose serious concerns for players, fans, and organizers.

Rising Heatwaves in U.S. Host Cities

The United States has faced record-breaking summer temperatures in recent years. This trend is expected to continue in 2026. Cities like Miami, Houston, Dallas, and Philadelphia often experience heat above 95°F (35°C) during June and July. These are dangerous conditions for athletes.

Health experts warn about wet bulb temperatures, which measure both heat and humidity. Once this temperature exceeds 89.6°F (32°C), the human body can no longer cool itself properly. This increases the risk of heatstroke. During the 2025 Club World Cup, organizers had to include extra cooling breaks. In some stadiums, players struggled to perform under the intense heat.

Some open-air venues may reach “feels like” temperatures of 120°F (49°C) in the afternoon. Playing under such extreme heat increases the chances of fatigue, dehydration, and injury.

Thunderstorms Add to the Risk

Besides extreme heat, summer thunderstorms create another challenge. Many eastern and southern U.S. cities experience daily storms during this time of year. These storms often come with lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain.

Several matches during the 2025 Club World Cup faced delays or suspensions due to storms. Organizers had to evacuate fans and reschedule matches. These disruptions affected team preparation and TV broadcasts. With a larger tournament in 2026, the stakes will be even higher.

Climate Change Magnifies the Threat

Scientists say heat domes—weather systems that trap hot air—will become more common due to climate change. These systems make temperatures soar and storms linger. Recent summers have shown how intense and long-lasting these conditions can be.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup may become the first major sports event shaped by these new climate patterns. Planning for these risks is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.

Conditions in Specific Host Cities

Here’s a brief look at weather risks in some U.S. host cities:

  • Miami: High humidity and heat with regular afternoon storms
  • Houston & Dallas: Temperatures above 100°F; some relief available in climate-controlled stadiums
  • Philadelphia & Atlanta: Prone to both heat and lightning storms
  • New York/New Jersey: Milder than others, but still faces storm threats

Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer cooler climates. Mexico’s high-altitude cities may also see fewer weather issues. These locations could become preferred choices for key matches.

What Can FIFA Do to Keep Everyone Safe?

FIFA and local organizers must act now to manage these risks. Here are some steps that can help:

  1. Reschedule Day Matches: Avoid scheduling games between noon and 5 PM in high-risk cities. Evening matches can reduce heat exposure.
  2. Use Indoor or Air-Conditioned Stadiums: Facilities like AT&T Stadium in Texas or SoFi Stadium in California offer safer conditions.
  3. Add More Cooling Breaks: Provide hydration stations and allow more rest during games. Extended halftime could also help.
  4. Track Weather in Real-Time: Use advanced weather alerts to delay or evacuate matches if needed.
  5. Educate Fans and Staff: Share safety tips, offer free water, and provide shaded areas around stadiums.

These steps can protect players and fans, and they will also help preserve the quality of the tournament.

Could the Climate Impact the Game?

Extreme weather may also affect how the game is played. Teams playing evening matches in cooler cities might have an edge. Others may face difficult conditions that lead to slower play or more injuries.

FIFA must address these concerns to maintain fairness. Organizers should consider rotating match times and locations to reduce weather advantages for some teams.

Conclusion

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will make history. It will span three countries and feature more teams than ever. But it also faces serious climate threats. If FIFA doesn’t act quickly, the tournament could face disruptions, health risks, and safety failures.

Heatwaves and thunderstorms are not future problems—they are already here. The success of the World Cup depends on smart planning that puts safety first. By adjusting schedules, choosing safer venues, and prioritizing health, FIFA can rise to this challenge.