World Cup faces extreme weather risks as matches begin

The World Cup kicks off on Thursday across North America, with concerns over extreme heat and humidity. Forecasts predict above-average temperatures and possible thunderstorms that could disrupt play. Sports scientists highlight risks associated with high-wet bulb globe temperatures, warning that as many as a quarter of matches could exceed safety limits. FIFA plans to implement hydration breaks and has considered weather conditions in scheduling, but experts suggest further safety measures may be needed as a test of adaptation to climate challenges.

• 11:08 AMYahoo Sports — Volatile summer weather threatens to turn World Cup into test of heat