São Paulo urges caution as kites endanger power lines during school break

More than 1,000 kite‑related incidents on transmission lines were recorded in São Paulo in 2025, a 14% rise from the previous year. The start of school holidays has heightened the risk, with balloons also causing two system shutdowns in 2025 and temporarily cutting power to about 33,000 homes in 2026.

ISA Energia Brazil announced a R$30 million investment in preventive maintenance and an education campaign called “Small Actions, Big Consequences.” The utility Enel issued safety guidelines: avoid flying kites near power lines, especially in storms; use non‑metallic materials; supervise children; and never attempt to retrieve a kite that gets tangled. In case of an incident, the area should be isolated and the emergency number 800 7272 196 called. The National Electric System Operator (ONS) notes that fires remain a leading cause of transmission interruptions nationwide.