Jarring aerial photo shows empty West Edmonton Mall

Apr 17 2020, 7:57 pm

An airborne photographer has shared a disconcerting image of the deserted West Edmonton Mall during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reddit user omega-pilot captured the mall and its barren parking lot from above, and shared the photo on the online forum. North America’s largest mall is usually thrumming with activity, but it’s nearly empty now because of the pandemic.

“The photo was an opportunity to capture WEM in Pandemic Mode in the air; a shot in a lifetime,” the photographer, who did not want to be identified, told Daily Hive in a Reddit message.

West Edmonton Mall

Omega-pilot/Reddit

Omega-pilot also mentioned the usually bustling roads leading to the mall were completely quiet. They think the photo could be an opportunity to show future generations how serious the pandemic shutdown was.

The mall has been closed since March 27 to prevent coronavirus spread. All of its entrances are shut, except for those leading to essential businesses and the Fantasyland Hotel. No one is allowed to gather, loiter, or walk through the mall until further notice.

“We must act responsibly and comply with the government order for the benefit of the country, for our tenants, guests and team members,” the mall said in a coronavirus update.

Megan DevlinMegan Devlin

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