Will England vs Argentina be delayed? Latest weather forecast and if World Cup semi-final will be moved

England's 2026 World Cup semi-final against Argentina could be impacted by severe weather, with thunderstorms currently forecast in Atlanta on Wednesday.

Supporters will be hoping for clear skies, but there remains a genuine possibility that kick-off could be delayed if lightning is detected near the stadium.

Thunderstorms are forecast in Atlanta during England vs Argentina semi-final

England vs Argentina is at risk of disruption after thunderstorms were forecast across Atlanta ahead of and during Wednesday's blockbuster clash.

Current forecasts predict storms from around 2pm local time through until 7pm, with the match scheduled to kick off at 3pm local time (8pm BST).

Under United States safety regulations, FIFA must suspend or delay matches if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Any lightning strike triggers a minimum 30-minute delay, with the clock restarting each time another strike is recorded nearby.

If play is interrupted, both teams would also require a further 15-minute warm-up before the match could resume.

England have already experienced weather disruption during this World Cup.

Their Round of 16 clash against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca was delayed by an hour because of severe thunderstorms, while their final warm-up match before the tournament was also affected by lightning.

The Three Lions' quarter-final victory over Norway was instead played in extreme heat, with temperatures reaching around 33°C in Miami.

As things stand, FIFA has made no indication that Wednesday's semi-final will be brought forward or rescheduled, with organisers continuing to monitor conditions in Atlanta.

FGG says: England fans should prepare for delays

Based on how FIFA has handled weather elsewhere during this tournament, it would be a major surprise if England vs Argentina was moved to another time.

The more likely scenario, should thunderstorms arrive, is a delay before kick-off or a temporary suspension during the match until it is safe to continue.

England supporters travelling to Atlanta should therefore prepare for every eventuality, but history from this World Cup suggests patience, rather than panic, will probably be required.

If you're keen on having a flutter on the match, be sure to check out our guide to the best 2026 World Cup betting sites.