MLS
Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium braced for Hurricane Helene
With a major hurricane bearing down on Southern Florida, this weekend’s MLS clash against Charlotte FC could be hit with heavy rain and storms.
All eyes will be on South Florida in the coming days as the East Coast braces for the arrival of Hurricane Helene. The huge tropical storm has been rated a Category 4 hurricane, potentially bringing “catastrophic” weather conditions in the region.
The hurricane is expected to have significant consequences across the region with high winds and heavy rains forecast. It could also have a baring on the weekend’s sporting action, with many games now in danger due to Hurricane Helene.
Hurricane Helene approaches Florida: Live updates
Inter Miami are looking to bounce back from two games without a win when they take on Charlotte FC on Saturday. The Herons are back in Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale for the MLS clash, in an area that could be affected by the storms.
Will Inter Miami be hit by Hurricane Helene?
Inter Miami are currently playing in Fort Lauderdale while they await the completion of their new Miami Freedom Park home near Miami International Airport. The city is one of those under a tropical storm warning and the City of Fort Lauderdale Emergency Management team has issued advice to residents.
A statement reads: “We expect the strongest winds to occur from 6-8 a.m. on Thursday, continuing into the evening from 7-10 p.m.”
“Localized flooding is possible. Although our stormwater system is capable of handling three inches of rain during a 24-hour period, with continuous heavy rainfall, flash flooding is possible.”
Fort Lauderdale is on the fringe of the danger zone but local officials are warning that street flooding could be seen ahead of the coming days. The turf at Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium is unlikely to be affected but if conditions around the venue worsen it could be deemed too dangerous.
MLS rules dictate that matches are also delayed if there is a lightening strike within eight miles of the stadium or if wind speeds exceed 60mph. Players will be taken from the field and fans must shelter away from their seats. If conditions do not improve games will be postponed and the remainder of the time played at a later date.