Extreme weather threatens 2026 World Cup: heat, storms, and smoke

The FIFA 2026 World Cup will be played in summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. But the chosen calendar coincides with the season of extreme heat, thunderstorms, and wildfires. A study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology concluded that 14 of the 16 venues exceed the critical thermal stress threshold during summer afternoons.

Heat as a silent rival

Average maximum temperatures in cities in the southern United States and northern Mexico range between 32°C and 35°C, but can reach 40°C during heatwaves. Humidity worsens the heat index: in Miami, a 32°C day can feel like 43°C. FIFA introduced mandatory three-minute hydration breaks in each half, but the risk persists.

The WBGT (wet-bulb globe temperature) heat stress index measures the real impact on the body. Six venues — Miami, Houston, Dallas, Monterrey, Kansas City, and Atlanta — could record WBGT of 32°C or higher, considered extreme stress. At the final on July 19 in New York, a typical heatwave would raise the WBGT to 30°C, close to the dangerous limit.

Storms: the unpredictable factor

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the southeastern United States. If lightning strikes within 16 kilometers of a stadium, the match is suspended for at least 30 minutes. During the 2025 Club World Cup, six matches suffered delays due to storms, including a Chelsea-Benfica match with a two-hour delay. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca stated that the United States is "probably not the right place" for the tournament.

The Miami F1 Grand Prix was moved three hours earlier in 2025 due to storm risk. The circuit is next to Hard Rock Stadium, which will host World Cup matches. The unpredictability of storms complicates planning, though evening schedules reduce the risk somewhat.

Wildfire smoke and air quality

The 2026 wildfire season started earlier than usual. In 2023, smoke from Canadian wildfires blanketed Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, affecting visibility and player health. Poor air quality can cause respiratory problems and reduce athletic performance. Local authorities monitor the situation, but there are no specific protocols for suspending matches due to smoke.

Mitigation measures

Some stadiums have retractable roofs and air conditioning systems, such as in Houston and Dallas. Most matches are scheduled after 6:00 PM local time to avoid peak heat. However, extreme heatwaves can exceed cooling capacity. FIFA insists that player safety is a priority, but scientific data suggests the risk is real and not fully controllable.