Why was Ravens vs. Chiefs delayed? Latest on weather report on Week 1 opener

Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs are scheduled to host reigning NFL MVP Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens at the GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in the season-opener of the 2024 NFL season.

The highly-anticipated rematch of the AFC Championship Game was scheduled to commence at 8:20 PM ET on Friday. However, the kickoff has been delayed due to inclement weather in Kansas. The video boards inside the stadium warned fans with messages that read:

"Please be advised that due to pending weather conditions. All event/game activities will be interrupted. [We request] that all guests make their way to the concourses and out of the elements."

Heavy rains and lightning forced players off the field during pregame warmups, prompting the league to delay proceedings. However, it won't be a lengthy delay.

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Latest on the weather report on the Week 1 opener between the Chiefs and Ravens

According to Weather.com, the conditions will improve as the night progresses and won't affect the game too much. The season-opener will kick off at 8:40 PM ET.

The thunderstorms and lightning not persisting is terrific news for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense, who'll rely heavily on their passing game to put points on the board.

Ravens debutant Derrick Henry will also be pleased about not having to worry about rushing with a damp ball. The veteran will look to make his mark against the reigning champions and set the tone for his first season with his new team.

Kickers Justin Tucker of the Ravens and Harrison Butker of the Chiefs will also be grateful that the inclement weather that delayed kickoff won't be a factor throughout the night. The rain and strong gust winds could have severely affected their ability to make field goals and extra points.

Fans inside Arrowhead Stadium will be glad that their experience watching two AFC titans battle it out in the season opener won't be scuppered due to the weather.

Fans at home have no such worries and can enjoy the game live on NBC Sports. They can also livestream the season-opener between the Chiefs and the Ravens on Peacock and NFL+.