World Cup 2026: Severe weather crisis threatens Norway vs Senegal clash

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group stage clash between Norway and Senegal is under serious threat after weather warnings raised concerns over the safety and possible disruption of the match scheduled for early Tuesday morning.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, FIFA is closely monitoring the situation after alerts highlighted the risk of lightning strikes and severe storms in the host city.

Weather Warnings Spark Major Concern

The match, set to be played in the second round of Group stage fixtures, has been flagged due to rapidly changing and potentially dangerous weather conditions.

Emergency updates shared by the New York City Emergency Management Department warned of unstable conditions throughout the day, with officials advising that thunderstorms could intensify as the evening approaches.

Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Forecast

Forecast reports indicate that rain is expected to begin in the morning and continue into the night, with an 85% chance of precipitation across the city.

Light rain is expected until midday, before scattered thunderstorms develop across the northern parts of the city. These storms are predicted to spread across the wider metropolitan area between 2 pm and 7 pm.

Meteorologists warn that the most severe conditions could occur between 7 pm and 10 pm, with thunderstorms likely, including the possibility of severe storm activity.

Rainfall totals could reach between 1.25 and 2 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 2.75 inches.

Risk of Flash Flooding and Strong Winds

Authorities have also raised concerns about heavy rainfall rates that may exceed 1.5 inches per hour in short bursts, increasing the risk of flash flooding in affected areas.

Winds are expected to blow from the south-southeast at 10 to 15 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 30 miles per hour and isolated spikes of 40 to 50 miles per hour during stronger storms.

FIFA Monitoring Situation Closely

With lightning risks and severe weather warnings in place, FIFA officials are expected to make a late assessment on whether the match can proceed as scheduled or if adjustments will be required to ensure player and fan safety.

For now, the Norway–Senegal encounter remains on the fixture list, but the situation remains uncertain as conditions continue to develop.