The Nevada desert turned into a scene of destruction this weekend as Burning Man 2025 faced a series of dust storms, leaving thousands of attendees stranded in extreme conditions.
Winds topping 50 mph ripped through Black Rock City on Saturday, destroying campsites, collapsing structures, and even demolishing the festival’s infamous 'Orgy Dome.'
Organizers of the long-running attraction confirmed the collapse, writing on Instagram, “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.”
© TaraBull808 /XFor some attendees, the conditions felt apocalyptic. One festivalgoer, huddled inside an RV with friends, filmed the storm for X, saying: “Very first dust storm is officially here… guys are like screaming outside. Things are flying around.” Her friend added that it “sounded like a zombie apocalypse” outside.
© itsjeka/InstagramThe National Weather Service issued a dust storm advisory late Saturday, warning of a “wall of blowing dust” sweeping northward at 30 mph. Visibility quickly dropped to less than a mile, forcing organizers to close the gates into Black Rock City temporarily, stranding new arrivals for as long as seven hours.
© orgydome/InstagramBy Sunday, conditions had slightly improved, though the risk of more storms, including lightning, flash flooding, and even hail, still loomed. “There were wind gusts over 45 mph for a sustained period of time,” a Burning Man spokesperson told SFGate. “Participants and staff were advised to batten down their camps and avoid driving during low visibility.”
Not all structures survived. A Ukrainian-led art team lost their 8-ton inflatable installation 'Black Cloud' after what they described as “a sudden hurricane-force wind swept across the desert” and ripped it apart. The piece, meant to symbolize looming global threats, lasted only 15 minutes before being destroyed.
The 'Orgy Dome,' a fixture of Burning Man since 2003 and operated by a sex-positive collective, has long drawn thousands of visitors annually. Equipped with mattresses, couches, and climate control, it was designed as a space for couples to enter together while promoting “education about consent and the importance of its practice beyond intimate space.” Last year alone, it welcomed more than 5,000 attendees.
Its destruction sparked a mix of reactions online. Some mocked the collapse with comments like “That’s Jesus Christ saving people" and “The wind is doing the lord’s work.” Others defended the group, praising their inclusive environment, “Keep on keepin’ on @orgydome… ya’ll put on great events and are so incredibly welcoming.”
Neighboring camps even offered comfort and supplies. But as the festival continues toward its scheduled end on September 1, uncertainty remains. With forecasts calling for thunderstorms and the possibility of flooding, many fear a repeat of 2023, when heavy rains stranded thousands in thick mud.
For now, Burning Man’s organizers continue to stress resilience. Despite destroyed art, ruined shelters, and a dismantled 'Orgy Dome,' the community is moving forward.
