The Olympic women's soccer quarterfinal between the United States and Canada was suspended in the 21st minute due to a strong thunderstorm in Shanghai on Friday, with the U.S. leading 1-0.

On Friday afternoon, the Shanghai Meteorological Bureau forecasted heavy rainfall along with thunder and lightning in most parts of the city. The area where the soccer competition venues are located will also be affected, according to the forecast.

Some parts of the city may face torrential rains on Friday, the forecast said.

The thunder shower weather is expected to continue over the weekend, but may feature less rainfall as of Sunday, it added.

Heavy rainfall also haunted the main Olympic host city Beijing on Thursday, forcing several baseball and softball games to suspend. The competition of some events, such as the finals of two rowing events, were postponed due to the rain.

(Xinhua News Agency August 15,2008)