Cleveland Browns vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers game was suspended after lightning moved into the Tampa area.

Updated on: Sep 21, 2026, 02:21:41 IST

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Update (4:48 p.m. EDT): According to journalist Aileen Hnatiuk, there is a chance the Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers could resume play within the next 20 minutes.

The game was suspended with two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter after lightning moved into the Tampa area.

Initial report: The Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are still in a lightning delay at Raymond James Stadium, with two minutes left in the fourth quarter.

Play was stopped after lightning moved into the Tampa area, sending players and fans to shelter. The game kicked off at 1 p.m. ET.

When will Browns vs Buccaneers resume?

There is no official restart time yet. The game is currently listed as suspended rather than completed.

Deep Dive

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Under NFL safety procedures, play cannot resume until the lightning threat has passed. Officials typically require a waiting period after the last detected strike, and any new lightning can reset that clock. Once the all-clear is given, players will also need time to return to the field and warm up.

What happens next?

The teams will return once conditions are considered safe and finish the final two minutes.

The Browns currently lead 23-19, but Tampa Bay has the ball and remains within reach of a comeback.

Fans seek shelter at Raymond James Stadium

Photos and videos from the stadium show fans being directed to shelter as the weather moved through the area.

The delay came as thunderstorms brought heavy rain and frequent lightning to Tampa.

Severe weather warning issued

The National Weather Service office in Ruskin also issued a Special Marine Warning for Tampa Bay waters through 4:45 p.m. ET.

At about 4:12 p.m. ET, the National Weather Service said a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts was near the Howard Frankland Bridge and moving south at about 15 knots.

The warning included the potential for waterspouts, wind gusts of at least 34 knots, frequent lightning, heavy rain and suddenly higher waves.

The NWS warned, "Waterspouts can quickly form and capsize boats, damage vessels, and create suddenly higher waves. Make sure all on board are in a secure location and wearing life jackets. Expect wind gusts in excess of 34 knots, suddenly higher waves, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours. Make sure all on board are wearing life jackets."

The warning covered areas including Hillsborough Bay, Gandy Bridge, Old Tampa Bay, the Howard Frankland Bridge, Courtney Campbell Causeway and Clearwater.

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