Rain may force closure of NRG Stadium roof on Super Bowl Sunday

By Kevin Byrne, AccuWeather staff writer

February 1,2017, 5:05:28PM,EST

 

 

Mild conditions along with the chance for showers will mark the days leading up to Super Bowl LI in Houston.

The New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons will square off at NRG Stadium to become Super Bowl champions. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. EST.
However, NRG Stadium features a retractable roof, so any inclement weather will not pose a threat to the quality or outcome of the game.

Even though the game will be sheltered, the week leading up to the Super Bowl features numerous events around the city. One of the biggest is Super Bowl LIVE, a free fan festival that will be held at Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston.
Those who are headed to Houston and are planning to spend time going to festivities around town should be prepared for some rain.
Temperatures on Friday and Saturday will settle near 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with evening temperatures dropping into the upper 60s. However, there will be the chance for some spotty showers each day, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Mike Doll.

People pose for photos in front of NRG Stadium as preparations continue for the NFL Super Bowl 51 football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, in Houston. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
"On Super Bowl Sunday, it will be warmer with clouds and sun and afternoon highs approaching 80," Doll said. "A few scattered showers will develop in the Houston area as well, which could potentially impact pre-game festivities and parties going on outdoors."
The NFL reportedly wants to keep the stadium roof open for the game, assuming the weather is suitable, according to the Associated Press.
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The league will not make a final decision on whether the roof will be open or closed until Saturday.
In order for the roof to be opened, typically temperatures must be below 78 and above 65, and there must be no rain in the forecast, CBS Houston reported.
“If the weather cooperates with us, which we hope it does, the roof will be open,” Eric Finkelstein, NFL director of events, told the AP.