Featured Image Credit: JULIE JAMMOT/AFP via Getty Images.
Topics: US News
Stewart Perrie
Police have launched an investigation into the death of a person at Burning Man as tens of thousands of people remain trapped.
According to the Associated Press and Reuters, the Pershing County Sheriff's Office has released a statement regarding the tragedy.
Authorities only said the festival goer died during a 'rain event' on Saturday and their family has been notified.
Heavy rain ripped through the iconic Black Rock desert music festival, which ruined the only roads in and out of the event.
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The entrance has been closed due to flooding and anyone who attempts to get through has been warned they will be turned away.
People have been warned to conserve food and water as authorities work to find a way out.
Burning Man's official Twitter page said organizers have told festival-goers in Black Rock City to 'help each other stay safe'.
"The gate and airport in and out of Black Rock City remain closed," it said.
"Ingress and egress are halted for the time being. Stay prepared for adverse weather conditions continuing through the night and into Saturday."
The gate and airport in and out of Black Rock City would also 'remain closed'.
It added: "No driving is permitted except emergency vehicles.
"If you are in Black Rock City, conserve food, water, and fuel, and shelter in a warm, safe space."
Burning Man has since published a '2023 Wet Playa Survival Guide' on its website offering further information on what was going on, what festival-goers can do and what 'other resources' are available to them.
The guide reiterates: "Conserve your food, water, and fuel. If you have extra, share with your neighbors. This is always common-sense in a wilderness environment."
While it might sound dire, it seems like rain certainly hasn't ruined the parade.
Festival goer Shervin Natan, told the BBC that despite the muddy conditions, 'the party's still going, it's business as usual'.
People have fashioned special shoes made of plastic bags and other materials to get through in the mud, while others are simply walking barefoot.
DJ and producer Diplo shared a video showing him and comedian Chris Rock on the back of someone's car after they managed to find a way out of the festival.
It's unclear how long people are expected to be stranded and will depend on rainfall in the coming days.