The Carolina Panthers are set to take on the Los Angeles Rams on January 10, marking the beginning of the 2025 NFL playoffs. The highly anticipated wild-card matchup is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, but fans and players alike may need to prepare for stormy weather.
Charlotte’s weather forecast indicates a significant chance of rain, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms, impacting the playoff atmosphere. Reports suggest that areas around the stadium could experience heavy rain and possible lightning, particularly around the time the game kicks off. However, as long as lightning remains at a safe distance, the game will proceed as scheduled, with the NFL monitoring the situation closely to evaluate any necessary delays.
In early afternoon updates, conditions at the stadium were favorable, but the forecast remains concerning. ESPN’s Sarah Barshop described the afternoon as “beautiful,” though impending rain has many wondering about the impact on this critical playoff clash. Chief meteorologist Tara Lane from Queen City News indicated that the heaviest rainfall could occur right at kickoff, along with potential lightning threats.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the Charlotte area is expected to see a high temperature of 74 degrees with a low of 45 degrees. Wind gusts might reach up to 32 mph, adding to the challenging conditions. The NWS has already issued a “Hazardous Weather Outlook” for Mecklenburg County, warning of possible severe thunderstorms that could bring damaging winds and even the slight chance of a weak tornado.
In a silver lining for fans, the likelihood of thunderstorms is projected to diminish after 5 p.m. ET, suggesting that conditions may improve as the game progresses. Regardless, both teams must brace for potentially slippery field conditions in the first half, which could affect gameplay.
As the 2025 playoff season kicks off, the anticipation builds, with fans and teams hoping for an exciting match despite the weather challenges ahead.