Netherlands vs. Tunisia weather updates: Thunderstorms expected in Kansas City as kickoff nears

The Netherlands and Tunisia are set to play their final group-stage match of the 2026 World Cup. That is, if the rain doesn't get to them first.

On Monday, France and Iraq's game was subject to a 131-minute delay, according to The Athletic, due to torrential downpour and nearby lightning strikes in Philadelphia. While it hasn't shown to be as prominent in the Kansas City area tonight, the weather forecast does not look promising as the opening kickoff's time is slated in the middle of a flood warning.

Here's the latest on the inclement weather situation in Kansas City.

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Netherlands vs. Tunisia weather updates:

5:32 p.m. - Around an hour ago, Sporting News' Benson Taylor shared a picture of the Kansas City skies above Arrowhead Stadium. The sky cast a large gray sheet for the foreseeable miles. There is a chance that tonight's match between the Netherlands and Tunisia is subject to some delays.

We have three hours to kickoff, but the skies aren’t looking good before the Netherlands-Tunisia match in Kansas City. pic.twitter.com/loyI9Zp3m7

Forecast for Netherlands vs. Tunisia

As of 5:30 ET, the weather in Kansas City is projected as thunderstorms, according to Accuweather. From 5 p.m. ET to 8 p.m., thunderstorms are forecasted with a flood watch from 1 p.m. on Thursday to 7 a.m. on Friday.

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Is Netherlands vs. Tunisia delayed?

At the moment, the Netherlands vs. Tunisia match is still expected to start at its original 7 p.m. ET time.

This section will be updated if that were to change.

FIFA lightning delay rules

The Sporting News contacted FIFA regarding specific rules and regulations about lightning and treacherous weather conditions affecting a match. FIFA confirmed the following:

"In the event of severe weather conditions such as lightning or thunderstorms, FIFA will implement a thorough procedure based on public safety standards, providing clear and specific safety guidelines to all stakeholders involved. FIFA has dedicated meteorological support throughout the tournament to provide accurate forecasting and strengthen real-time operational decision-making."

If a weather delay is triggered at a roofless venue, both the pitch and seats must be evacuated by fans, players, and staff.

Players and team officials are required to return to the dressing rooms as quickly as possible, and fans must leave their seats and take shelter inside the stadium concourse. They must remain sheltered until the danger passes and the all-clear is sounded.