Incident may be linked to 'drainage problem' caused by 2011 construction

Apple's flagship Fifth Avenue store in New York City was flooded earlier today, according to the New York Post. The store was reportedly hit by heavy rain, which initially resulted only in a slow leak. The leak turned into a pour however, forcing workers to hurriedly move tables out of the way. By 8AM, the outlet was flooded.

Staff continued serving customers throughout the incident, and cleaned up any water pooled on the floor. Anonymous workers suggest that the flooding may be linked to a "drainage problem," in turn the result of renovation work done in 2011. That year Apple decided to replace the store's iconic above-ground glass cube, shrinking the number of panes from 90 down to 15.

The Fifth Avenue Apple Store is the only one that stays open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, excluding disruptions because of emergencies or major product launches. It's believed to be some of the most profitable real estate on Fifth Avenue -- famous for its luxury stores -- and an important profit engine for Apple. It also remains a focal point for lineups and media coverage during iPhone and iPad launches.

by MacNN Staff