The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will kick off at 8pm tonight as scheduled, but severe thunderstorms could interrupt the match. The game is set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, an open-air venue, despite flash floods that swept through New York and New Jersey yesterday.
Flash floods and tornado warnings
On Saturday, flash floods inundated the region, with tornado warnings issued in some areas. Dramatic images showed cars submerged and New Yorkers wading through floodwaters after 3 inches of rain fell in just a few hours. Water also flooded subway stations and caused delays at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The New York Yankees game was canceled yesterday but will be played this afternoon.
Wildfire smoke and air quality concerns
Adding to the challenges, wildfire smoke from Canada is hanging over the city, pushed south by winds. Earlier this week, the New York Office of Emergency Management announced that air quality levels had reached 'very unhealthy' levels. While conditions have slightly improved in recent days, the open-air stadium could still be affected.
High-profile attendees
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the Spanish royal family are traveling to the United States for the final and will watch from a VIP box. US President Donald Trump is also expected to attend and will hand over the World Cup trophy to the victors, marking his first appearance at the tournament.
Messi's message to Argentina
Lionel Messi sent a stirring message to his Argentina teammates ahead of the final. 'The nicest thing about all these years was never just the titles, but all the path,' Messi wrote on Instagram. 'Share the day-to-day with this group, compete together, get up in the difficult moments and enjoy every step. Thanks to each of my teammates, the technical staff and all the people who work every day to keep this national team a family. Whatever happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story that we will never forget and that no one can erase. COME ON ARGENTINA ❤️'
