Kansas City received a tornado warning just hours after England’s national soccer team touched down in the city, which is serving as the squad’s home base during the World Cup.
The National Weather Service issued an alert warning residents of a severe thunderstorm capable of producing wind speeds up to 80 miles per hour — roughly 129 kilometers per hour. Tornado sirens rang out across the city on Saturday evening.
The weather alert urged people to seek immediate protection, stating: “Take shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter.”
According to British media reports, England’s players were directed to remain inside as well. A fan festival taking place in the city also shut down ahead of schedule in the interest of public safety.
Earlier that same afternoon, before the tornado warnings went into effect, the English squad held a community training session. The team had already faced a setback before even reaching Kansas City — their training kit was stolen prior to their arrival.
England is scheduled to open their World Cup campaign against Croatia in a Group L matchup on Wednesday in Arlington.
