Overview
- The storm hit on Saturday night, June 27, prompting an evacuation and the cancellation of the festival’s final day after organizers said a tornado destroyed all public reception facilities.
- The B-52s were held from the stage by their tour manager about ten minutes before the storm and did not perform, and the band reported no injuries but said much of their equipment was destroyed or heavily water damaged.
- Frontman Fred Schneider posted photos and accused the promoter of failing to warn performers and crews that conditions were unsafe, while festival organizers have not yet publicly addressed all of the band's allegations.
- Organizers cited safety as the reason for canceling the June 28 program and said the site suffered major damage; a full assessment of infrastructure loss and equipment claims is still under way and may have insurance and liability implications.
- The incident occurred during a record heatwave in Europe, which scientists link to climate change, and it has intensified scrutiny of how festivals plan for sudden extreme weather and protect artists, crews and attendees.