Black Rock City, the remote site of the annual Burning Man event in the Black Rock Desert of northern Nevada, is grappling with heavy rainfall, leaving its approximately 73,000 attendees stranded and uncertain about when they can depart.
The rain began pouring down around noon on Sunday and returned again at 6 p.m., further complicating the situation. The torrential rain has turned the festival grounds into a muddy mess, rendering it impassable for both vehicles and bicycles. Authorities issued a strict no-driving order when the rain initially started on Friday.
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Unfortunately, one fatality was reported at the event on Saturday, and the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation. While the individual’s identity has not been disclosed, the family has been notified. Tragically, attempts to resuscitate the individual on the playa were unsuccessful.
The situation at Burning Man has garnered attention at the highest level, with President Biden receiving a briefing on the matter. Administration officials are in communication with state and local authorities as they work to address the challenges posed by the ongoing rain.
Despite the logistical challenges, organizers are still planning to proceed with some of the event’s iconic rituals. The burning of the festival’s namesake man structure is scheduled for 9 p.m. on Monday, with another large-scale art piece set to be ignited later in the evening. The burning of the event’s temple structure will take place at a yet-to-be-determined time on Tuesday.
In the city, attendees are increasingly concerned about their obligations and commitments in the outside world. Conversations about caring for children, pets, and even plants have become common as people grapple with the unexpected extension of their stay. “I need to leave!” one woman exclaimed at an information booth. “I’m supposed to go on vacation in Greece this week.”
The event’s airport remains closed, further complicating exit options for attendees. Burner Bus shuttles to Reno and San Francisco, which initially transported around 20,000 people to the event, are currently on hold. Once service resumes, priority will be given to those with missed departure times.
As the rain continues to impact Burning Man 2023, attendees and organizers are working together to find solutions and ensure everyone’s safety during this challenging time.