In Philadelphia, the match between France and Iraq became the first World Cup game of the tournament to be suspended because of severe weather. Heavy rain and lightning during halftime forced players to remain in their locker rooms, while tens of thousands of fans were instructed to seek shelter inside the stadium. Play resumed after a delay of more than two hours.
The storm has also affected New York and New Jersey, where authorities issued severe thunderstorm and flash flood warnings. Forecasters warned that the Northeast Corridor remains vulnerable to dangerous weather conditions.
Organizers have strengthened safety measures and prepared evacuation plans at outdoor fan zones.
