German Rock Festival Suspended After Dozens Were Injured From Lightning Strikes

The 31st annual Rock am Ring Festival in Mendig, Germany was hit by lightning last night (June 3). It's being reported that more than 70 people were injured as a result of the strikes. With more bad weather expected tonight, today's performances have been suspended.

According to the Independent, the storm moved in around 8:00PM local time, with the lightning happening 30 minutes later. The performances were delayed for 90 minutes and fans were told by the organizers to seek shelter. At least 42 people were sent to the hospital, with eight injuries reported as being serious and two people needing to be resuscitated.

It's the latest in a series of storms that have hit Europe in the last few weeks. This stretch of severe weather is responsible for 16 deaths, with 11 taking place in Germany alone, and others happening in Romania and Belgium. Coincidentally, 33 people were injured at last year's festival as a result of lightning strikes.

Although organizers originally told the BBC that the festival, which takes place in a former airfield, will not be suspended, local authorities have overruled their decision. They issued a message on social media saying, "Please stay in your tents or for your own protection go to your cars." One of the organizers, Marek Lieberberg, added, "It's not about causing panic but giving people the feeling that someone is looking after them."

The Red Hot Chili Peppers were scheduled to headline today. There is no word yet on the status of tomorrow's bill, which will be headlined by Black Sabbath.

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