Thousands evacuated from Rose Bowl concert due to severe thunderstorms

Thousands of concertgoers were pulled from the Rose Bowl on Saturday night due to an unexpected rainstorm.

The Cruel World Music Festival included headliners like Iggy Pop, Siouxsie, Billy Idol and more.


Organizers of the event halted the concert during Iggy Pop’s performance and ordered everyone outside after lightning struck near the venue.

“Due to inclement weather, please exit the venue and move to your vehicles or protected areas outside the venue for safety,” officials tweeted. “The festival has been postponed until further notice. Please vacate the venue immediately. Use the nearest emergency exit.

On May 20, 2023, thousands of people were evacuated during the Cruel World Music Festival at the Rose Bowl due to severe thunderstorm warnings. (@AlbertPBJ)

“We are tracking severe thunderstorms near Mount Wilson as they move southwest between Pasadena and Monrovia,” According to the National Weather Service. “This storm can produce strong winds, heavy rain, lightning and small hail.”

A new rescheduled date for the postponed festival has not been announced.

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