New Orleans Superdome Catches Fire
On Jul 17, 2024, black smoke and flames were seen coming from the roof of the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. City officials have urged residents to avoid the downtown area near the stadium.
– The New Orleans Fire Department responded to a three-alarm fire at the Superdome around 1 p.m. Central time, with smoke visible from miles away.
– The fire originated in a “gutter tub” circling the base of the stadium’s roof, according to The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate.
– By 1:20 p.m., New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced that the fire was under control but advised residents to keep avoiding the area.
– At least one person was hospitalized with burns related to the fire, as reported by New Orleans EMS.
The cause of the fire and the full extent of the damage remain unclear. The flames appeared to be limited to a small section of the Superdome’s 10-acre roof.
The Superdome, now named after Caesars, has been undergoing a roof cleaning process in preparation for repainting.
It’s one of the most famous sports arenas in the U.S., having hosted seven Super Bowls and various championship events. The stadium is home to the New Orleans Saints, who have not played there this season due to Hurricane Ida.
The Saints’ first game against the Green Bay Packers was relocated to TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida, because of the hurricane, which has left extensive damage in New Orleans.
