Storm warning issued for southern Norway ahead of World Cup match

A yellow lightning warning has been issued for southern parts of eastern Norway from midnight Friday, coinciding with Norway’s World Cup match against France, which kicks off at 21:00 local time.

Meteorologist Sigrid Marie Vildskog Auganæs told Dagbladet the storm, described as “juicy,” could bring heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, and localized flooding. The system is moving in from Scotland and is expected to reach Rogaland around 21:00, potentially allowing eastern Norway to finish outdoor events before its arrival.

“It’s a bit of a bad combo,” Auganæs said, noting the dry summer conditions increase the risk of wildfires from lightning strikes. She advised concertgoers, football fans, and outdoor event organizers to monitor updates and have contingency plans.

The warning is set to expire at 08:00 Saturday. The Norwegian Meteorological Institute cautions that lightning can damage property, ignite fires, disrupt power and communications, and harm unplugged electrical devices. It urges the public to avoid exposed areas, open water, and tall isolated objects like trees during the storm.