Heat could force England vs Norway postponement at World Cup

England's World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday could be impacted by extreme heat, with temperatures in Miami forecast to reach 33 degrees Celsius at kick-off. FIFA's Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) measurement, which accounts for humidity and sun exposure, may trigger cooling breaks or even a postponement if readings exceed 32°C.

The match at Hard Rock Stadium is scheduled for 5pm local time (10pm BST). The WBGT reading will be taken 90 minutes and 60 minutes before kick-off at hot and humid locations. If the level hits 32°C or above, the FIFA Emergency Care Manual states that cooling breaks must be implemented, or the match could be delayed or cancelled.

What happened in previous matches

Thunderstorms already delayed England's last-16 clash against Mexico, which kicked off at 2am UK time and ended in a 3-2 win for the Three Lions. Against Brazil in the quarter-finals, England won 2-1 to set up the Norway tie. Hydration breaks have been used during this World Cup, but no matches have been postponed or cancelled yet.

Key points on weather rules

• WBGT readings are taken 90 and 60 minutes before kick-off
• A reading of 32°C or above requires cooling breaks or possible postponement
• FIFPRO recommends delaying or postponing matches above 28°C WBGT
• Thunderstorms are also forecast, with lightning potentially causing shelter-in-place orders
• No World Cup match has been postponed for heat so far this summer

What's next

The match management team will assess conditions on the day. England and Norway will hope the weather allows for a straightforward contest, but both sets of fans should be prepared for possible disruptions. The winner will face either France or Argentina in the semi-finals.