Thunderstorms Disrupt World Cup Final Preparations in New Jersey
New Jersey experienced disruptive thunderstorms on Saturday, forcing Spain to cancel their final training session ahead of the World Cup final. The severe weather system also impacted their opponents, Argentina, who managed to train after a delay of about 45 minutes. Both nations are set to compete for the championship title on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Tournament rules require training sessions to be put on hold if lightning is detected within an eight-mile distance. Safety officials routinely check for lightning every 30 minutes until conditions are safe for activity to resume. This safety measure has caused delays for several matches and training sessions throughout the tournament, which has been hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Spain’s team waited approximately 40 minutes for the steady rain and storms to pass before ultimately deciding to call off their practice. While the bad weather hindered the last training sessions for both teams, there was a silver lining. The rainfall was expected to clear the smoky haze that had been affecting the area.
This haze was a result of recent Canadian wildfires, which had reduced air quality in the region. Improving conditions are anticipated for Sunday’s final. On Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 160, a level considered “unhealthy.” However, forecasters predict the AQI will decrease to 100 by Sunday, indicating a “moderate” level of air quality. This change should provide a clearer and more pleasant environment for the highly anticipated final match.
