Electric Zoo Evacuated, Canceled Due to Storm Threat

The Electric Zoo music festival on Randall's Island was cut short on its final day because of severe weather, organizers say.

The festival was evacuated and canceled Sunday afternoon as thunderstorms threatened to roll into the area. Organizers issued an apology, adding "ultimately our main concern is for the safety and security of all attendees, artists and staff."

The decision was made around 4:30 p.m., about six hours before the festival was scheduled to end its third and final day. Fans have to take ferries and shuttle buses to get out of the venue on Randall's Island. 

Earlier, organizers said fans have been taking advantage of new safety features at the New York electronic-music festival, but there were no major problems. 

Two festival-goers died last year of drug overdoses combined with overheating. This year, organizers added drug-sniffing dogs, peers watching for people feeling ill, a "cooling tunnel" and other measures.

Spokesman Stefan Friedman says the event's medical tents have seen some visitors, mainly looking to rest or get water. He says tens of thousands of water bottles have been given out.

The Fire Department hasn't gotten reports of any injuries requiring hospitalization. Police have no immediate information on whether there have been any arrests.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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