Yerevan , Armenia – 9 September 2025; Evan Ferguson of Republic of Ireland sprays water on his face before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F qualifying match between Armenia and Republic of Ireland at Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium in Yerevan, Armenia. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
Sportsfile via Getty Images
Millions of fans have been gathering from all over the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, the United States and Mexico. One of the most significant threats may not be found on the field, but in the weather forecast. Extreme heat, humidity and prolonged outdoor exposure for both fans and players could put individuals at risk for a range of heat-related illnesses; including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The games across 16 cities will be played in some of the hottest months of the year; June and July. Many of the games will have temperatures in the 80s and 90 degrees Fahrenheit range, with heat index values exceeding 100 degrees F in some cases. This level of heat poses health risks for players and fans enjoying the festivities.
Heat illnesses occur when the body’s cooling mechanisms get overwhelmed from severe heat and humidity. Normally, sweat helps cool the body as it evaporates. However, with high temperatures and humidity, the body sweat does not evaporate effectively, making heat dissipation less effective. In addition, with excess sweating, the body loses water and fluids, making it harder for the heart to pump blood to the skin to keep it cool.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body cannot cool down effectively when temperatures rise, with significant loss of water and salts from the body. Those with heat exhaustion typically experience a low-grade fever, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps and excessive sweating. When experiencing heat exhaustion, it is critical to start hydrating by drinking water, avoid the heat by coming indoor to A/C ventilated areas and apply cooling towels to your body. For fans at the World Cup, staying hydrated and drinking water is necessary even if you do not feel thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already likely behind in fluid replacement.
Heat Stroke
When heat exhaustion is not treated appropriately, it can lead to a life-threatening emergency known as heat stroke. This occurs when your body’s temperature regulating system is overwhelmed and stops working. Patients with heat stroke will typically have a temperature reading of 104 degrees F or higher, as well as confusion, lightheadedness, loss of consciousness and sometimes seizures. This is a true medical emergency that requires urgent evaluation, cooling and IV fluids in the hospital.
Who Is At Risk?
Any young, healthy individual can get any of these heat-related illnesses, particularly when exposed to high temperatures in humid areas for prolonged periods of time. This includes nearly all players and spectators at the World Cup. Those more likely to suffer from heat related illnesses include young children, the elderly, those with chronic medical conditions and pregnant females because these individuals can have difficulty regulating their body temperatures or may not be able to retain enough fluids to stay hydrated.
What Can Fans Do To Protect Themselves?
In addition to drinking water to stay hydrated, fans can also take breaks and go indoors to enjoy an A/C location, seek shade whenever possible, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing and apply sunscreen of 30 SPF or more. These tips from the CDC could be the difference between enjoying the game or having to go to the hospital for a heat-related illness.
The World Cup is expected to be one of the largest sporting events in history. For fans traveling to support their teams, understanding the signs of heat illness could be just as important as knowing the match schedule.