Sunderland have moved to reassure supporters that this afternoon’s Premier League fixture against Leeds United is “currently scheduled to go ahead as planned” despite the severe weather battering the North East.

Storm Boelo has brought heavy rain and strong winds to the region across the weekend, prompting concerns about whether the game at the Stadium of Light would survive the conditions.

In a statement released shortly before 12.30pm, the Black Cats confirmed the 4.30pm kick-off remains on course to proceed. The club also urged fans to plan accordingly and allow extra time for their journeys to the ground.

“Despite the ongoing storm and adverse weather conditions, the Premier League fixture between Sunderland AFC and Leeds United at the Stadium of Light this afternoon is currently scheduled to go ahead as planned,” the statement read.

“Supporters are encouraged to allow extra time for their journey, arrive early where possible, and take extra care when travelling to the stadium.

“Supporters are advised to keep an eye on official Club channels for any further updates ahead of the fixture.”

The Met Office forecast suggests Sunday will remain stormy, with gales affecting many areas and heavy showers expected throughout the day. Conditions are anticipated to gradually improve later on, with some brighter and drier spells developing as the afternoon progresses.

For Sunderland, the match represents a crucial opportunity to address a troubling run of form. Regis Le Bris’s side sit bottom of the table and are in desperate need of a win to begin climbing away from the relegation zone.

The hosts have struggled badly in recent weeks, losing five and drawing one of their last seven league fixtures. Their difficulties have been compounded by the absence of striker Brian Brobbey, who has not featured in the Premier League since scoring a hat-trick against Manchester City in September. Le Bris has confirmed the Dutch forward will be available again for this fixture, offering a timely lift.

Leeds arrive in the North East with injury concerns of their own. Daniel Farke is facing the possibility of being without Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Noah Okafor and Anton Stach, all of whom have been labelled major doubts.

Despite those absences, Alan Shearer has backed the visitors to take all three points, pointing to Sunderland’s small squad and their European commitments as factors behind their poor domestic form.

The weather adds another layer of uncertainty to an already intriguing contest. Sunderland’s statement will ease immediate fears about a postponement, but supporters on both sides will be watching the skies closely in the hours before kick-off. The club has promised further updates through official channels should circumstances change.

With the hosts desperate for points and the visitors aiming to secure a second away win of the campaign, the fixture carries significant weight for both sides. Whether Storm Boelo plays a part in proceedings remains to be seen, but for now the game is on.