The Chicago Bears game against the Baltimore Ravens has been delayed and fans have been evacuated from the stands due to a Tornado Watch affecting the area.
Soldier Field, which is an open stadium with no roof, is in the path of the dangerous storm, which according to meteorologists could produce several, long lasting tornadoes throughout the day on Sunday.
Officials thought they had a window of opportunity to resume the game at around 1:30 pm CST, however a second system is threatening with severe weather once again.
The new time to resume play announced on CBS is 2:25 pm CST.
The team is in constant communication with the National Weather Service for the latest updates to ensure the safety of the public and players alike.
The game was delayed with delayed with 4:51 left to play in the first quarter.
If players are able to return to the field at 2:15 pm, there will be a 10 minute warm-up before play starts, according to CBS .
As the storm approached, fans were warned that an evacuation could be possible with about 10 minutes of play left in the first quarter.
The Ravens had just scored a field goal, with 4:51 left in the quarter, when the PA systems announcer asked that fans leave the stands and seek cover from the torrential rain, thunder, and lightning.
According to CBS , the announcement was made at 12:31 pm and by 12:54 pm hundreds of fans in the upper decks were still unable to leave the stands due to congested aisles.
At the time there was heavy rains, strong wind, and lightning. By 1:20 pm the stands were finally clear.
As reported by The Inquisitr the National Weather Service issued a statement regarding the severe weather affecting large areas of the Midwest:
“Our primary message is this is a dangerous weathers system that has the potential to be extremely deadly and destructive. Get ready now.”
The Ravens were leading the Bears 10-0 before play was suspended.
The second line of storms is expected to be less severe than the one that forced the Bears to delay the game, but it contains lightning and very strong winds. Field conditions could be an issue. Stay tuned for further details.
UPDATE: The Bears game has now resumed at Soldier Field in Chicago. Check local listings.
