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By Joe Edwards
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Burning Man's infamous "Orgy Dome" has been destroyed by high winds sweeping through Black Rock City in Nevada, its organizers said.
Why It Matters
The Orgy Dome has operated at the festival for more than two decades and functioned as one of the event's most recognized private spaces. Its organizers describe it as "sex-positive, consensual space for couples and moresomes."
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Dating back to 2003, The San Francisco Chronicle calls the area "one of Burning Man's longest-running and most notorious attractions." According to the outlet, Burning Man attracts about 70,000 attendees each year.
What To Know
In an Instagram post on August 24, organizers said the dome was damaged "beyond repair" by the winds.
"Our structure was destroyed by the winds yesterday," it read. "We hope to be able to offer some workshops if possible but what remains of the dome is beyond repair."
Another post showed the dilapidated tent strewn with sand.
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The area had been issued weather warnings by the National Weather Service (NWS) on Sunday, with the agency cautioning of dust storms and heavy rain.
On Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) warned that scattered thunderstorms were expected in Northern and Central Nevada until 10 p.m. that evening, a few of which could be strong, it said.
The agency said wind gusts near 50 mph would be possible, and that localized flooding would also be possible.
"If you're on the playa at the Black Rock Desert, you may very well be in for a muddy mess Monday through Wednesday," a forecast issued from the NWS office in Reno on Sunday said.
Footage shared on social media appeared to show festival-goers attempting to secure their tents amid the dust storm.
Burning Man is a weeklong festival set in the desert, where attendees create art, music and culture.
The festival is staged in Nevada's Black Rock Desert, within Black Rock City—a temporary settlement built just for the event. It emphasizes community and inclusivity, taking its name from the effigy burned on its penultimate night.
What People Are Saying
An Orgy Dome Instagram post on August: "Our build team worked so hard this past week to *erect* our lovely space. Unfortunately, the winds yesterday undid all that labor and wrecked our structure. We are still here and thankfully safe, we hope to gift the playa some workshops and will keep you updated."
An update from Burning Man organizers on X on Tuesday: "The Gate into and out of Black Rock City is currently closed. Rain is coming down, thunderstorms are present, and strong winds may follow. If you are in Black Rock City: Keep an eye out for lightning, take care of your camps, and stay safe. The playa is too wet to drive. Do not drive. Do not travel to BRC at this time."
What Happens Next
The Burning Man festival takes place from August 24 to September 1.
"A few pop up showers and thunderstorms could occur today, most likely during the afternoon and evening," AccuWeather meteorologist Dan Pydynowski told Newsweek. "Any of these storms could contain some gusty winds, lightning and a downpour."
"There will still be a small chance of a pop-up shower/thunderstorm Thursday and Friday, but rain chances tomorrow/Friday will be less than today's," Pydynowski said.
Update 8/27/25, 12 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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