Mobile Civic Center Roof Collapses After Record Snowfall

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – The domed roof of the Mobile Civic Center collapsed Wednesday morning, just one day after the city experienced a record snowfall. The building, which is currently undergoing demolition, gave way around 11 a.m., causing a loud noise and shaking the ground, according to witnesses.

Mobile city spokesman Jason Johnson confirmed the collapse, stating that the roof fell in on itself due to the weight of the snow. “Based on an initial evaluation of the site, the arena’s roof did collapse in on itself due to the snow load,” Johnson said. “It fell in a manner that was consistent with the plans for demolition. There were no injuries, and the mosaic murals have not been damaged.”

The collapse occurred as the city was already in the process of demolishing the aging structure. The Mobile Civic Center, a landmark in the city, has been a focal point for community events and concerts for decades. The demolition project was initiated to make way for new development in the area.

Local residents expressed shock at the sudden collapse. One witness posted on Facebook shortly after the incident, saying he “heard it and felt the ground shake.” The record snowfall, which blanketed the city with several inches of snow, is believed to have contributed to the structural failure.

Authorities have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety while engineers assess the damage. No injuries were reported, and officials emphasized that the collapse did not pose a threat to nearby structures or residents.

This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.