Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Lightning Strike at North West Festival Kills 2, Triggers Major Medical Response

Health services mounted a mass-casualty response that included transferring 13 critical patients to a Gauteng hospital.

Overview

  • The incident occurred on 3 January at the Mphebatho Troop Festival at Dertig Sports Ground in Moretele, leading organizers to halt the event for safety.
  • Officials reported 150 people sought care at Mathibestad Clinic, with 49 admissions to the community health centre.
  • Thirteen critically injured patients were transferred to Jubilee Hospital in Gauteng for further treatment.
  • North West and Gauteng EMS reinforced on-site care, with two doctors, seven nurses, and multiple ambulances deployed, according to the provincial health department.
  • Moretele’s mayor convened a Sunday briefing and visited the two bereaved families, while the provincial premier is expected to meet them on Monday.