Huge thunderstorm hits hours before England’s World Cup clash with Mexico
Bad weather is forecast for the 6pm (1am UK) kick-off time, but the electrical storms arrived shortly before 3pm local time.
A huge thunderstorm hit the Estadio Azteca three and a half hours before England’s last-16 World Cup clash with Mexico.
Bad weather is forecast for the 6pm (1am UK) kick-off time, but the electrical storms arrived shortly before 3pm local time.
There were incessant bouts of lightning and thunder, before winds picked up and heavy rain hit.
The big screens inside the stadium displayed signs warning people that an electrical storm was approaching and to remain in their seat, though people ran for cover when the heavens opened.
There are currently no suggestions the kick-off will be delayed, although play cannot begin until 30 minutes has passed since lightning was detected within an eight-mile radius.
Mexico’s last-32 match with Ecuador on Wednesday was delayed by an hour after thunderstorms struck ahead of kick-off.
The possible weather is another thing for England to deal with ahead of a crunch match, where they have to battle Mexico’s home advantage and the altitude.
The storm has at least cooled the air down, with temperatures at 20 degrees.