Lightning Hits Pro-Bolsonaro Gathering in Brasília, Injuring Dozens

Overview

• Initial counts vary as the response continues, with reports ranging from 72 to at least 89 people receiving care and hospitalizations reported as 29 overall with at least eight serious or eight hospitalized in serious condition.
• Authorities and medical sources say many victims were affected by electrical currents that spread through the ground from the impact point rather than by a direct strike.
• INPE reports that 20% to 30% of people struck by lightning die, about 70% of survivors face lasting complications, and survival from a direct hit is estimated at about 2% by the Health Ministry.
• A typical lightning discharge carries roughly 30,000 amperes in milliseconds, causing burns and damage to the heart, lungs and nervous system, with most deaths resulting from cardiac and respiratory arrest.
• Brazil leads the world in lightning incidence, with about 110 deaths annually, and officials urge sheltering in sturdy buildings or closed vehicles while avoiding open areas, trees, metal structures and umbrellas during storms.