Burning Man’s Orgy Dome “Beyond Repair” After Freak Dust Storm

The Orgy Dome at Burning Man has seen better days after a 50 MPH windstorm wreaked havoc on the event site the evening before gates opened.

Those who arrived early to build the more than 1,100 autonomous theme camps that comprise Burning Man were battered by a 50 MPH windstorm that bent metal poles and destroyed dwellings the night before gates opened to regular ticket holders. Some had an easier time rebuilding than others, with the infamous event staple Orgy Dome being rendered inoperable.

“Our structure was destroyed by the winds yesterday,” reads an Instagram post sent out by the Orgy Dome. “We hope to be able to offer some workshops if possible but what remains of the dome is beyond repair. Shoutout to all the theme camps that have checked on us.”

A subsequent Instagram post shows the state of the structure, a broken frame with scraps of fabric hanging haphazardly around its perimeter. “Our build team worked so hard this past week to *erect* our lovely space,” wrote the Orgy Dome’s organizers. “Unfortunately, the winds yesterday undid all that labor and wrecked our structure.”

The team behind the Orgy Dome later sent out a call for supporters on playa to donate supplies including lengths of pipe, ball bungees, and material for walls. It is unclear whether they’re still entertaining the idea to operate for a portion of the event after obtaining the necessary building elements.

The Orgy Dome debuted at Burning Man in 2003, offering a space for group sex to any couple or group over the age of 18 in addition to sex-positive talks and workshops. The area inside is famously split to accommodate parties who wish to be left alone and parties who are open to others joining them.

Also this year at Burning Man, a large art installation called “Black Cloud” meant to provoke thought about the looming threat of world war was destroyed by the dust storm that swept across the Black Rock Desert in Nevada.