Rain Threatens Norway’s World Cup Quarter-final Party Against Eng

Norway is gripped by football fever ahead of its historic FIFA World Cup quarter-final against England, with thousands of fans preparing to gather at public viewing areas across the country. However, adverse weather could dampen the celebrations.

The Norwegian Meteorological Institute on Friday issued a yellow weather warning for southeastern Norway, forecasting heavy rain and thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon and evening. Some areas could receive more than 20 millimetres of rainfall in just one hour.

According to the weather agency, the downpours could lead to urban flooding, water entering ground-floor buildings, localized floods, and even an increased risk of landslides and flash floods. As a result, organizers of outdoor fan zones are preparing contingency plans.

Throughout Norway's five matches at the ongoing World Cup, thousands of supporters have watched games together on giant outdoor screens in city squares and public spaces. The national team's impressive run in its first men's World Cup appearance in nearly three decades has transformed streets and public squares into vibrant festival venues.

Fans are also eager to see the team's now-famous "rowing" celebration, which has gone viral around the world and become one of the tournament's most talked-about goal celebrations.

There is, however, some encouraging news. The latest forecast suggests the rain is expected to ease around 8:00 p.m. local time, while the England-Norway quarter-final in Miami is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 p.m. Norwegian time. That means supporters are still hopeful they will be able to gather outdoors and cheer on Erling Haaland and his teammates without major disruption from the weather.

MMR