Is the FIFA World Cup final in danger? Spain trains through toxic smoke as wildfire smoke engulfs NJ Football News
Preparations for Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain have been overshadowed by an unexpected opponent – thick wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada, triggering air quality warnings in New York and New Jersey and raising questions about whether football’s most important match will face weather-related disruptions.After the race was repeatedly disrupted by thunderstorms, lightning delays and severe weather, concerns have now shifted from rain to smoke, with wildfires in Canada blanketing much of the Northeastern United States and thick fog blanketing much of the U.S. Northeast.Authorities in both New York and New Jersey have issued health advisories after air quality reached unhealthy and sometimes “very unhealthy” levels. The New York Office of Emergency Management urged residents to avoid staying outdoors for more than an hour because smoke can reduce visibility and increase health risks.The World Cup final is scheduled to be played on Sunday at the New York-New Jersey Arena in East Rutherford, and organizers are keeping a close eye on the situation there.Despite the shocking scenes, improved weather forecasts, coupled with expected rain on Saturday, should clear much of the smoke ahead of kick-off, meaning the final is now expected to go ahead as planned.
Spain conducts outdoor training despite harmful air
Spain’s preparations continued under smoky conditions as the European champions arrived in New Jersey on Wednesday night following their semifinal victory over France.Luis de la Fuente’s team held an outdoor practice Thursday in East Hanover despite smog blocking the sun and air quality hovering between “unhealthy” and “hazardous,” according to the Associated Press. Media were only allowed to watch the first 15 minutes of training, making it difficult to assess the intensity of the session.Argentina, meanwhile, stayed in the Atlanta area after beating England in the semifinals. The defending champions avoided the worst of the smoke because Georgia was south of the affected area. Lionel MessiThe team is scheduled to begin practice Friday in New Jersey.Medical experts question the wisdom of exercising outdoors in such circumstances.
Smoke adds another challenge before show finale
Wildfire smoke has become a growing environmental problem across North America, with scientists linking longer, more intense fire seasons to a warming climate.Experts say smoke contains thousands of potentially harmful compounds that can affect the lungs, heart and immune system. Even healthy people can experience irritation and difficulty breathing after prolonged exposure, and strenuous exercise can significantly increase the amount of polluted air inhaled.Worsening air quality has affected sports in the region. Wednesday’s National Women’s Soccer League game between Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit was played in nearby Queens, but players were asked to take two extra breaks in each half because of the smoke.For FIFA, however, there is growing optimism that Sunday’s final will avoid disruption. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s air quality forecast predicts air quality will improve to “moderate” by game day, easing concerns that Argentina’s showdown with Spain could become the latest World Cup match to be affected by extreme weather.
Post Comment