Katy Perry was forced to pull out of a scheduled festival performance in Belgium at the last minute after severe weather led officials to shut down the event early.
The 41-year-old pop superstar shared the disappointing news with fans on Instagram just hours before she was supposed to headline Werchter Boutique on Saturday, revealing the cancellation was completely out of her hands.
Dangerous Weather Forces Last-Minute Cancellation
Perry had been set to close out the festival following Pitbull's performance, but incoming storms prompted local authorities to cancel the remainder of the event over safety concerns.
In a message to fans, the singer explained why she would no longer be taking the stage.
© Gotham"Sadly my set @WerchterBoutique tonight can't happen due to a government mandated cancellation because of the incoming inclement weather and crowd safety concerns."
She added that she was already backstage preparing for the show when she received the news.
"I was backstage getting ready when this news was delivered, and they gave me no choice."
"I Am Just as Unhappy as You Are"
Perry admitted she was devastated by the unexpected cancellation, stressing that the decision wasn't hers to make.
"I am just as unhappy as you are."
She continued by saying the circumstances were beyond her control and that keeping fans safe had to come first.
"It is beyond my control. I am sorry I can't change the weather, and even sorrier that all of us can't be together tonight."
A Nostalgic Surprise Fans Won't Get to See
The singer also revealed she had planned a special throwback for longtime fans.
Perry said she intended to wear the very same outfit she wore during her last Werchter Boutique appearance back in 2009.
© Getty Images"I was even gonna wear the same outfit from that 2009 show again. I love you all, and please get home safe."
Alongside the statement, Perry posted a photo of herself sitting outside in striped sweatpants and a white robe while smoking a cigarette. Next to her sat the stage outfit that never got its moment in the spotlight.
Festival Ended Early Due to Severe Storms
Perry also shared the festival's official announcement confirming that Werchter Boutique would close at 9 p.m. because of forecasts calling for severe thunderstorms. Her headlining set had been scheduled to begin an hour later.
© ZUMA PressOrganizers said the decision was made to allow attendees to leave the venue safely and avoid dangerous weather conditions, emphasizing that the health and safety of everyone at the festival remained the top priority.
Tour Continues Despite Setback
Although fans in Belgium missed out on Perry's performance, the singer's summer tour schedule remains intact.
She is expected to return to the stage on June 30 at Depot Live, taking place at Cardiff Castle in the U.K., before continuing with additional festival appearances throughout the summer.
