The World Cup match between France and Iraq has been suspended due to adverse weather conditions in Philadelphia.

France took a 1-0 lead thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s goal into halftime on Monday (Tuesday AEST), but a 30-minute break was initially announced by FIFA because of the risk of lightning in the vicinity of the stadium.

“A 30-minute break has been announced. FIFA will follow the safety protocols established by the local authorities, and the match will resume as soon as it is safe to do so,” football’s governing body said in its live blog.

TV footage showed the empty stands as fans took shelter from the rain.

There were fears the start of the game would be delayed or that the match would have to be cancelled as heavy rain set in some three hours before the 5pm (local time) kick-off and thunder claps were also heard.

“Due to inclement weather in the region, gates opening will be delayed,” Lincoln Financial Field said on X, advising fans “do not travel to Philadelphia Stadium at this time.”

But just over half an hour later an update said that “gates are now open.”

The safety procedures related to weather conditions had so far not been needed at the tournament but encountered during last year’s Club World Cup and World Cup tune-up games.

Based on weather service recommendations on outdoor activities, matches are delayed or stopped for 30 minutes if lightning strikes within 13km of a stadium. Every further lightning strike sets off the 30 minute rule again.

Players are to leave the pitch and spectators are led to safer areas. Matches are continued in the minute they are stopped when play is possible again.