NFL season opener delayed with new kickoff time revealed after thunderstorms hit Chiefs-Ravens game at Arrowhead Stadium

THE Kansas City Chiefs-Baltimore Ravens game was delayed after lightning strikes were reported in the area.

Pregame warmups were postponed and kickoff was pushed back by 20 minutes.

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Rain came down in buckets in Kansas City and fans took cover inside as high winds and lightning hit.

The Chiefs and Ravens were pulled off the field during warmups.

A message was broadcasted on the Chiefs’ jumbotron to warn fans of the weather interruption.

“Please be advised that due to pending weather conditions, all event/game activities will be interrupted,” the message read.

“GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium asks that all guests make their way to the concourses and out of the elements and follow the directions of stadium staff.

“GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium apologizes for the inconveniences and will inform you when it is safe to return to your seat.”

The storm passed over by kickoff but the start time was delayed to allow for warmups.

The kickoff took place at 8:40 pm ET – 20 minutes behind the original schedule.

Kansas City’s X account had some fun with the weather delay, after posting “The calm before the storm,” earlier in the day.

As the weather rolled through town, they responded to the tweet saying, “We didn’t mean literally.”

The Chiefs and Ravens faced off in a rematch of the AFC Championship game.

The Chiefs topped the Ravens 17-10 in that game, but Baltimore will be looking for revenge.

However, the Chiefs have their biggest motivator in the house for the Week 1 matchup.

Taylor Swift arrived to watch her boyfriend , Travis Kelce, as she likely will do many times this season.

NFL important dates

August 1 - Hall of Fame Game - Houston Texans vs Chicago Bears

August 8 – Pre-season begins

August 27 – Deadline for 53-man rosters

September 1 – Final day of pre-season

September 5 – Season opener – Baltimore Ravens vs Kansas City Chiefs

November 5 – Trade deadline

January 5 – Week 18 of regular-season

January 11 – Playoffs begin

February 9 – Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Louisiana

The Chiefs beefed up security ahead of Swift’s arrival as they prepared to welcome her back for a second season.

“We’ll be prepared for her, and obviously welcome her with open arms,” Chiefs president Mark Donovan told Front Office Sports earlier in the week.

The Chiefs created an “intricate plan” for Swift’s attendance that may have been altered due to the extreme weather.

“She wants to be a fan. This is her off-time,” Donovan added.

“She wants to be there to support Travis. We’re going to create that opportunity where we provide that.”

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