Lightning Strike Injures 72 at Bolsonaro Protest in Brazil

Chaos in Brasilia as Lightning Hits Political Rally

A sudden lightning strike at a pro-Bolsonaro demonstration in Brazil's capital has left 72 people injured, with 30 requiring hospitalization and eight in serious condition. The incident occurred on Sunday as thousands of supporters gathered in heavy rain for a rally demanding the release of former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year prison sentence for attempting to overturn his 2022 election defeat.

Eyewitness Accounts Describe Terrifying Moment

Witnesses described a scene of chaos as a single lightning bolt struck near a sound truck during the protest at the JK Memorial on Monumental Axis road. 'I was suddenly hit by a fierce flash in my chest,' said one woman who experienced the strike. 'I remember falling backward and everyone falling on top of us. I was trembling all over my body.'

Teaching assistant Patricia Rosa suffered burns to her arms and abdomen along with severe ear pain from the strike. Firefighters quickly set up an emergency tent to provide first aid to the injured, with the Federal District Fire Department coordinating the response.

Political Context of the Protest

The rally marked the culmination of a seven-day 'Walk for Freedom and Justice' march covering 240 kilometers from Paracatu to Brasilia. Organized by Congressman Nikolas Ferreira, the event called for 'amnesty' for Bolsonaro and others convicted in connection with the failed coup attempt following his loss to leftist Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Bolsonaro, 70, is currently detained at a special facility in Brasilia and has faced ongoing health issues. His conviction in September 2025 came after a Supreme Federal Court trial found him guilty of plotting to remain in power despite losing the election.

Lightning Safety Concerns in Brazil

Brazil experiences significant lightning activity, ranking among the top five countries globally for lightning strikes according to Vaisala's 2024 Annual Lightning Report. The incident raises questions about safety protocols for outdoor political events during stormy weather.

According to the National Weather Service, lightning strikes kill approximately 20 people annually in the United States alone, highlighting the importance of proper safety measures during thunderstorms.

Broader Political Implications

The lightning strike incident comes amid ongoing political polarization in Brazil. Bolsonaro remains a divisive figure, with his supporters continuing to protest his imprisonment while his opponents argue the sentence represents justice for his attempts to undermine democracy.

Recent months have seen multiple protests both for and against the former president, reflecting the deep divisions in Brazilian society that have persisted since the contentious 2022 election.