Fans Urged To Take Shelter Before World Cup Match In Philly Due To Severe Weather

Update: Gates are now open. Kickoff remains scheduled for 5 p.m. as of this writing.

PHILADELPHIA — Hours before Monday's scheduled World Cup match, fans have been urged to stay away from Philadelphia Stadium because of inclement weather.

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Fans near the stadium are urged to take shelter as severe weather moves through the region.

The matchup between France and Iraq was scheduled for 5 p.m. at Lincoln Financial Field, which has been renamed for the tournament.

The gate-opening time will be delayed, according to an announcement from Lincoln Financial Field shared around 2 p.m.

Gates open 3 hours before kickoff, according to FIFA. It's unknown whether the game will be delayed or postponed.

"Due to inclement weather in the region, gates opening will be delayed," the announcement says. "If you are not in the area, please do not travel to Philadelphia Stadium at this time. A new gates opening time will be communicated once the weather has passed. If you are near Philadelphia Stadium, please take shelter."

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 3 p.m. for much of Philadelphia. The storm, bringing 60-mph winds, was detected at 2:20 p.m. over the city's Kensington neighborhood and is moving northeast, according to weather officials.

A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 9 p.m.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.