A small fire that has damaged the Rio 2016 Olympic Games velodrome is the second such fire to take place in the city in four months, according to city officials.
The fire began when a falling lantern laded on the roof and set it ablaze. Making small hot air balloons is a common practice in Brazil, although authorities regularly launch campaigns every year to deter the practice.
“The velodrome suffered damage to the roof, but there is no structural risk,” Rio’s fire department said in a statement.
The cycling track was not damaged in the fire, though a similar falling lantern caused damage to the roof and track – which is made from special pinewood only found in Siberia – in July.
These lanterns can cause issues with aircrafts as well as cause damage property and start forest fires.
IMAGE: Portal Brasil 2016
Share this