Lightning struck near a rally of supporters of Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro in Brasília on Sunday, injuring dozens of people, according to the fire department.
The incident occurred as thousands of Bolsonaro supporters gathered in the rain in the Brazilian capital to protest his imprisonment and demand amnesty. Bolsonaro, a former far-right leader, was sentenced last year to 27 years in prison for leading a failed coup attempt following his narrow re-election defeat.
Footage circulating on social media showed large crowds wearing plastic ponchos and holding colourful umbrellas moments before a sudden flash of lightning and a loud rumble startled attendees.
The Brasília fire department said 89 people were treated at the scene, with 47 taken to hospital for further care. Eleven of the injured required major medical attention, it added.
The rally was organised by federal lawmaker Nikolas Ferreira, who has been vocal in calling for Bolsonaro’s release.
Bolsonaro is currently being held at the Papuda penitentiary complex in Brasília. He has faced ongoing health challenges stemming from a stabbing during his 2018 presidential campaign. In December, he spent a week in hospital following surgery for a groin hernia and treatment for persistent hiccups.
Earlier this month, Bolsonaro also underwent medical tests after a fall while in custody, though authorities said no serious injuries were detected.
