The Department of Conservation Services confirmed that today [Aug 19] a small area of the internal ceiling collapsed in the Aquarium Hall at the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo [BAMZ].

Fortunately nobody was injured and there was no damage to the actual exhibit or fish. The area has been made safe and is now cordoned off, photo below.

Dr. Ian Walker, Principal Curator at BAMZ stated, “The area of the collapse was limited to a small portion of an internal false ceiling surrounding our round cylindrical tank.

“A single wire support pulled free due to continual ingress of water from the unusual rain fall we have been having, which caused the partial collapse. BAMZ staff have taken down the remainder of the ceiling to assess the rest of the structure and ensure no further collapse could happen.

“Engineers have now assessed the roof and support beams as structurally sound. Work will begin immediately to undertake emergency repairs that will allow BAMZ to operate normally until we close the Aquarium Hall for roof renovations in October”.

The Department of Conservation Services said that the small repair area will be cordoned off but the rest of the Aquarium Hall and the facility will continue to operate as usual.