Most tourists know Texas summers are scorching. But for World Cup visitors from across the globe, what does historical data predict for the weather on Dallas match days?
World Cup games in Dallas are scheduled from June 14 to July 14. During that period, the average high at DFW International Airport, the region’s official climate observation spot, ticks up from 92 and 93 degrees Fahrenheit during the group stage matches to 95 degrees Fahrenheit by the semifinal. For soccer fans accustomed to Celsius, that’s 33 to 35 degrees.
Matches will be played 11 miles south at AT&T Stadium, home stadium for the Dallas Cowboys and renamed as “Dallas Stadium” for the FIFA tournament.
While those temperatures may seem hot, North Texas often faces much worse.Over the last decade, summers have averaged about 20 days at, or over, 100 degrees.
D-FW Weather Wise
June 27, the day of the Jordan vs. Argentina match, holds the title for the hottest day in Dallas ever recorded. The city hit 113 degrees in 1980.
Although it’s too soon for a clear summer forecast, some long-range models have been released. The Climate Prediction Center’s forecasts assign probabilities of “above” or “below” normal conditions for the country, with some areas assigned “equal chances” if climate signals are less clear.
Slightly above-normal temperatures are projected for June, July and August, at a 33-40% probability. For precipitation, Texas received an “equal chances” designation.
Regardless of how high the temperature climbs, odds are all tailgaters and attendees will need to practice heat safety by staying hydrated, taking breaks from the sun and wearing sunscreen.