Lightning struck a packed festival near Mathibestad, killing two people and injuring about 150 others, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to EWN, the lightning incident happened on Saturday night at an annual traditional celebration about 70 kilometres north of Pretoria. Many people were outdoors when the storm hit.
The Northwest health department said 150 patients arrived at Mathibestad Community Health Centre after the strike. Thirteen of the injured were in critical condition and were transferred to Jubilee Hospital in Temba for specialised care. Staff treated most patients for burns and shock before discharging them (thevryburgindependentpost.com).
Local emergency teams and volunteers moved quickly to help. Clinic workers said the scene was chaotic and families raced to find missing relatives. Rescue crews urged people to seek shelter when storms gather and to avoid open areas.
Weather experts note that severe thunderstorms are common in this region during the southern hemisphere summer. Authorities urged communities to follow weather warnings and organisers to review safety plans for outdoor events.
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