BBC may seek compensation from UEFA after storms knock out TV coverage during nail-biting Euro 2008 semi-final

Millions of football fans around Europe were left shouting at their television sets when a power blackout interrupted TV coverage of the nail-biting match between Germany and Turkey.

The game was midway through the second half with a scoreline of 1-1 when the first of two blackouts, caused by a fierce electrical storm in Vienna, Austria, hit British viewers watching on BBC1.

Thousands were watching the game in Vienna's FanZone when the storm interrupted coverage

The storm was so severe officials instructed everyone to leave the FanZone immediately for their own safety

The BBC screen went red and tantalisingly only the commentary from Radio 5 Live could be heard as Germany scored to make it 2-1. The broadcaster is expected to lodge a formal complaint.

According to UEFA, hurricane-strength winds were measured in Vienna, where the television feed was based for the match played in Basel.

The system for transmitting pictures effectively had to be rebooted three times, causing three cuts that lasted an average of six minutes.

There is also uncertainty whether it was a breach of contract when broadcasters took pictures from Swiss television, which was reported to be unaffected, as a result of the loss.

The weather was so bad in Vienna that organisers instructed 25,000 supporters watching the game in the outdoor 'FanZone' to leave the area immediately.

What you saw: Frustrated BBC1 viewers could only watch this screen and listen to commentary from Radio 5 Live

What you missed: The crucial moment Miroslav Klose heads home Germany's second goal was not seen by British TV viewers

Two fans received serious injuries when thousands rushed to escape the thunderstorm. Medics said one of the victims was a woman who suffered back injuries.

Turkish fans watching the game in Britain were left frustrated and angry when the pictures went off.

One fan watching on television at home, Justin Freeman, 38, said: 'I know the BBC could not help there being a storm but it was so annoying that a crucial goal was scored when the pictures went off.'

Germany ended up winning the semi-final 3-2 and will now face either Russia or Spain in the final in Vienna on Sunday.

Soaked: A supporter remains in high spirits inside the evacuated FanZone in front of the historic Vienna Town Hall

Turkish supporters in Vienna's FanZone shelter from the torrential rain