Kite incidents trigger thousands of power outages in Goiás, Maranhão

Equatorial Goiás reported 1,002 kite‑related incidents on the electric grid in 2025, with 85% concentrated in just 15 municipalities. The highest counts were in Goiânia (231 cases) and Aparecida de Goiânia (190). By June 10 2026 the company had logged 238 further incidents, more than half of them occurring in May alone. The utility warned that kites striking power lines can cause short‑circuits, outages and pose dangers to hospitals, businesses, industry and residents.

Equatorial Maranhão recorded 707 incidents between January and May 2026. São Luís led with 285 cases, followed by São José de Ribamar (68) and Carutapera (66). Officials noted that the practice, especially during school holidays, frequently results in cable breaks, blackouts and severe electric‑shock hazards, aggravated by the illegal use of kerol and “linha chilena,” which conduct electricity and increase the risk of injury.

Both utilities urged the public to avoid flying kites near power lines, use open areas such as parks or fields, never attempt to retrieve a kite caught in wires, and refrain from using cutting‑type kite strings. Emergency services should be contacted immediately if a kite contacts the grid.