Trying to figure out when, exactly, the Metrodome's roof will be deflated is a bit like attempting to find Edward Snowden's whereabouts.
It's an elusive thing.
The deflation of the fabric roof is tentatively scheduled for Saturday. The fans in the Dome that inflate the roof will be disabled, causing the roof to deflate. It could take 20- to 40 minutes.
But Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, said Friday the timing is "unclear" due to many factors. The MSFA doesn't want throngs of people descending upon the construction site because there are potential safety issues. That's partly why a Saturday was chosen for the deflation, since there won't be as many people downtown on a weekend.
The deflation will be called off entirely if winds surpass the 5 mph on Saturday. Currently the National Weather Service is predicting a snowstorm beginning this evening, with winds out of the north at 10 mph.
Should the deflation occur, the event will be available for viewing from cameras inside and outside the Dome on www.vikings.com.
