LOS ANGELES (AP) A summer World Cup in the United States is facing the challenge of extreme heat during its knockout round games this week. A threatening heat dome will envelop the central and eastern United States, resulting in dangerously high heat index temperatures that combine air temperature with humidity, reaching into the triple digits in some locations. Host cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, and Kansas City, Missouri, with open-air stadiums, are particularly at risk.
Geoff Cornish, assistant chief video meteorologist at AccuWeather, stated, “This week is going to be very, very hot. This is going to be a significant heat wave, the likes of which we don’t see in every single year.” The growing concerns regarding extreme heat during the games have been prevalent for months. Climate change, driven by the combustion of fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal, has exacerbated heat in many regions. Alarmingly, heat-related incidents account for more annual deaths in the U.S. than hurricanes, flooding, and tornadoes combined, as indicated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The week ahead is projected to be particularly hot. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an extreme heat watch for Philadelphia and surrounding areas starting Wednesday afternoon and lasting into Saturday evening, with "feels-like" temperatures reaching up to 110°F (43.3°C) during the day. Consequently, FIFA’s Fan Festival in Philadelphia will adjust its hours, ending Saturday’s watch party after the 1 p.m. game. Cornish remarked, “It’s going to be sweltering and dangerous for anybody who’s spending a long period of time outside unprepared for the heat.”
An extreme heat warning is also in effect for Kansas City, along with certain portions of west-central Missouri, where heat index values could reach between 105°F to 110°F (40.6°C to 43.3°C) until Friday night. The New York City area may approach record-high temperatures of up to 109°F (42.8°C) with minimal overnight relief. An extreme heat watch will also be in place from Wednesday to Saturday evening in this area. The NWS warned that such levels of heat can be detrimental to health for individuals lacking proper cooling and hydration, which may also influence transportation and utility systems.
In Boston and much of southern New England, heat indices could soar to 111°F (43.9°C) as weather warnings take effect on Wednesday morning.
Both players and fans are at risk of heat-related issues. Although players benefit from medical staff, three-minute cooling breaks midway through each half, and additional safety measures, they remain susceptible to exertional heat illness. This condition arises when the body overheats during intense physical activity in extreme heat, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, impaired performance, headache, irritability, nausea, dizziness, cramping, and dehydration. Exertional heat stroke is particularly serious, requiring immediate medical intervention and is identified as the third leading cause of death among athletes.
Heat can also diminish game intensity, prompting players to alter their routines by reducing sprints, distance, and risk-taking actions. A 2023 survey by World Athletics noted that 75% of athletes reported that climate change adversely affects their health and performance.
For spectators, volunteers, and staff, the main dangers are often found outside the stadiums in fan zones, transport routes, car parks, and outdoor festivities, where prolonged exposure to heat is more likely. Many fans may also consume alcohol while watching the World Cup, which becomes riskier in hot conditions.
To address these concerns, some cities and stadiums have increased access to shaded areas, cooling zones, and drinking water. Medical personnel will be present at FIFA Fan Festivals and stadiums to manage heat-related issues.
To stay safe in extreme heat, experts recommend drinking ample fluids, seeking shade or air conditioning, and avoiding sun exposure. If outdoor activities are necessary, individuals should wear light and loose-fitting clothing and limit exertion during peak heat hours. Utilizing cooling fans or towels and consuming icy beverages can also be beneficial. It is crucial to minimize alcohol intake and ensure proper hydration even days prior to exposure to heat, as highlighted by Maggie Aldousany, associate clinical professor at the University of Miami.
Individuals should monitor hydration status by checking urine color, aiming for a light yellow hue as a sign of adequate hydration. Those on certain medications, older adults, and individuals unaccustomed to heat are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses. Cornish emphasized that signs of overheating, such as not sweating or experiencing dizziness, should prompt immediate breaks, cooling down, and drinking fluids. If symptoms escalate, seeking medical attention should be prioritized.
