EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- It was a very pleasant day here in New Jersey. It's not so pleasant tonight.

A torrential rain began about an hour before kickoff between the Vikings and the Jets at the New Meadowlands clearing the stands in the stadium. Players who were warming up also quickly left the field. A sign at the Meadowlands said "Due to lightning please head to concourses until further notice."

The rain had let up a bit by 6:41 p.m. but there was still a noticeable amount of water in the stands and lightning in the area. We could be in for a delay with this one.

UPDATE: After a brief delay, players from both teams have returned to the field to continue warmups.

UPDATE II: The players have once again left the field. Lightning strikes are still in the area. Not sure if this will cause a delay.

UPDATE III: Players are back on the field at 7:07 p.m. Twin Cities time. The rain has let it up.