How will severe weather affect the 2026 World Cup?

There are six host cities (Miami, Houston, Dallas, Monterey, Kansas City and Atlanta) where WBGT can reach at least 32C (90F) in the afternoon, which is considered extreme heat stress as the body struggles to cool itself.

To minimize these risks, matches are generally scheduled outside of the hottest part of the day, with many kickoffs taking place in the afternoon or evening. Scotland’s Group C game against Brazil, for example, will have a 18:00 (23:00 BST) kick-off in Miami.

Some venues, including stadiums in Houston and Dallas, also have retractable roofs and climate control.

Summer heatwaves are a common phenomenon in North America and Mexico where temperatures can rise 10C (50F) or more above average, which can put conditions in extremely challenging territory for players and fans alike.

For example, in New York, where this year’s World Cup finals will be held on July 19 at 15:00 ET (20:00 BST), a typical heat wave with temperatures in the mid-30s (mid-90F) and a WBGT of around 30C (86F) could lead to severe heat stress.