The 2026 College Football Playoff national championship is set to take hold of a familiar venue on Monday night. Miami and Indiana will meet at Hard Rock Stadium's field as college football's biggest prize glistens on the sidelines.
Given the weather typically present in Miami, the site seemed an appropriate one to host the sport's biggest event. But even an oasis has its pitfalls. Rain is often present in Vice City, particularly during the winter months. That could pose a challenge for the Hurricanes and Hoosiers, both of whom are hoping to hoist the famous trophy come the end of Monday's event.
Here's a look at the latest weather updates for Monday's national championship matchup between Miami and Indiana.
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Miami vs. Indiana weather updates
Sunday, Jan. 18
2:30 p.m.: The forecast for Monday's contest is a positive one, at least as far neutrals are concerned. Projections are calling for clear skies throughout the day and night in Miami Gardens, according to AccuWeather. It will be colder than usual, with temperatures dipping to as low as 53 degrees. But conditions should be ripe for clean football.
2:00 p.m.: The national championship game isn't until Monday. Nevertheless, the weather that currently is falling upon the Vice City is frightening. Miami is shrouded in a torrential downpour at the moment. Thunderstorms are expected to continue throughout the day and night, per AccuWeather. But they aren't expected to spill into Monday's contest.
Torrential downpour in Miami right now. Pic.twitter.com/scI2Fv4Ctj
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 18, 2026
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Does Hard Rock Stadium have a retractable roof?
Hard Rock Stadium is an outdoor venue, therefore the stadium is not retractable.
The barrier provides shade against the elements for most fans. However, it doesn't obscure the playing surface, meaning rain – or any other precipitation — would wreak havoc on the on-field action.
Miami forecast
Temperatures are expected to sit between the mid-50s and high-60s in Miami throughout Monday. Precipitation isn't expected to come down during the day, with a few clouds slated to take hold of the sky, according The Weather Channel.