The third day of a rock music festival in Germany featuring the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Black Sabbath has been cancelled after lightning strikes injured dozens of people, some seriously.

Rock am Ring festival organisers had halted performances for several hours on Saturday during another thunderstorm, temporarily sending some 92,500 fans to their cars and tents for safety, but vowing to resume the open-air event.

However, with more storms forecast, authorities in the area revoked the event's licence early on Sunday morning.

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Organisers said they regretted the decision but accepted it because of the need to ensure the safety of fans. They asked participants to clear the festival grounds by noon on Sunday.

The event website initially reported 42 people were injured during lightning strikes, but the numbers rose to more than 80.

The sell-out festival, now in its 31st year, took place at the airport in Mendig, near the Nuerburgring motor racing track.

At least eight people were hospitalised, according to the German Red Cross.

Most were now in good condition, except one man who had to be resuscitated at the scene and remained in hospital.

Event organisers had previously said the festival would continue despite the injuries.

Thirty-three people were injured by lightning strikes at the festival last year, according to German media.

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ABC/Reuters