US heatwave to hit Fifa World Cup today. It could feel like playing in an oven

Published 3 July 2026 · sports

A heatwave sweeping across large parts of the United States is expected to pose fresh challenges for players and fans at the FIFA World Cup

A heatwave sweeping across large parts of the United States is expected to pose fresh challenges for players and fans at the FIFA World Cup on Friday, with two of the day's three Round of 32 matches scheduled at open-air stadiums under dangerous heat and humidity. According to FIFA's official schedule, Argentina face Cabo Verde in Miami, Colombia take on Ghana in Kansas City, while Australia meet Egypt in Dallas. Switzerland players cool off during a hydration break. (Photo: AFP) Read Full Story Of these, only Dallas' AT&T Stadium has a retractable roof and air conditioning, largely shielding players from outdoor temperatures forecast to reach around 38°C. Scientists say the heatwave is being driven by a powerful heat dome. A heat dome is a high-pressure weather system that traps hot air close to the ground, allowing temperatures to build over several days.

The same weather pattern has pushed daytime highs into the 35-40°C range across parts of the central and eastern United States, with humidity making conditions even more dangerous. With the heat wave becoming unbearable, two fire trucks have been stationed along the route to the stadium, spraying water on thousands of fans as they make their way to the match. A much-needed way to cool off on a scorching afternoon. MIAMI AND KANSAS FACE BIGGEST CHALLENGE Miami is forecast to remain hot and oppressively humid on Friday afternoon, with air temperatures of around 32-33°C. However, high moisture levels in the air are expected to push the heat index, or the "feels like" temperature, to 38-40°C, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion for players, officials and spectators. Kansas City is expected to experience similar conditions during the evening fixture. While actual temperatures are forecast to hover around 34-35°C, the Weather Service has warned that the heat index could climb to 41-43°C under lingering humidity.

Switzerland's Manuel Akanji during the second half hydration break. (Photo: Reuters) Authorities have advised people to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion, drink plenty of water and seek air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. EXTREME HEAT VS FOOTBALL Heat has emerged as one of the biggest off-field challenges of this edition of the FIFA World Cup. A reason is also the fact that this edition has grown in scale, with a greater number of teams participating, playing a larger number of matches, and the tournament stretching for more days. Naturally, the rise in scale also raises the risk of exposure to sweltering conditions. Bolivia's players take a hydration break during a World Cup playoff. (Photo: AP) The concerns, however, extend well beyond a single matchday. Researchers say rising global temperatures are making prolonged, intense heatwaves more frequent, increasing health risks for athletes and fans and forcing sporting bodies to rethink scheduling and player safety.