O2 Arena Has Been Ripped Apart By Storm Eunice

The landmark suffered the blow today (18 February) as the storm is battering most of the UK with 60mph gales being reported in the capital.

The O2 - which is essentially a huge tent - is covered by sheeting which has been ripped away, with the panels that have come off seen floating in the nearby Thames.

Sharing a video, Twitter user Ben Hubbard said: "Quick update, in the last 45 minutes it started off as one small panel down in the corner and went right up to the centre and now it's in the second, third and now fourth panel being completely shredded.

"I'm not sure whether there's anything that can be done, this is just serious damage."

People have responded to the clip, with one writing: "Tbh it only looks like a bit of tarpaulin flapping there! Surprised it’s lasted this long!"

Another added: "Well this is just a perfect metaphor for the state of the UK in the 21st century. We need this as a meme."

And a third wrote: "The more wind can get into the structure, the worse the damage will get because the air will start pushing against the skin from the inside - yikes!" Yikes indeed.

The famous building, formerly known as the Millennium Dome, hosts major events including concerts and features restaurants, bars, shops and a cinema.

On its official Twitter account the O2 is described as: “Not just a tent. The world’s most popular music and entertainment venue.”

Visitors can also do a 90-minute climb of the recognisable roof for views of London as part of its Up at the O2 experience.

As Storm Eunice hit the city on Friday morning, witness Mala Sharma explained how she had seen parts of the dome damaged.

She told the PA news agency that 'more and more parts are getting ripped off', adding 'it’s going to be a safety issue for people around'.

Ms Sharma said it happened 'right in front of my eyes' and that the damage 'started off with a patch' but then a 'chunk' of the dome roof ripped off.

A statement from The O2 reads: "Due to today’s adverse weather conditions, we can confirm that there has been some damage caused to the tent fabric in our roof at The O2.

"The affected areas have been cleared and The O2 will remain closed for the rest of the day. The safety of our visitors remains of paramount importance, and we will continue to assess the ongoing situation and act accordingly."