It is vital we understand heat and humidity’s differing effects on us

The 2026 men’s football World Cup in New Jersey will face temperatures over 30°C, with high humidity exacerbating heat stress. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) measures like the 33°C (91°F) recorded in the Uruguay vs Cape Verde match highlight dangers of humid heat, which hinders cooling through sweating. The article contrasts this with dry heat benefits, such as those in saunas, while noting future World Cups may face extreme dry heat without humidity.