Apple Blames Dangerous Chicago Roof On Software Malfunction

CHICAGO, IL — The new Apple flagship store in downtown Chicago was surrounded with yellow caution tape and signs warning people to watch for falling snow and ice last week. Dangerous icicles were seen hanging from the store's roof early Friday. The store was criticized for not being able to handle Chicago winters, however Apple said the icicles formed after a software glitch that caused its heating system to break.

An Apple spokesperson said the store was designed to handle the snow, and has a warming system built into it. Instead of using gutters, the store drains heated water through internal support columns. The company said the software was reprogrammed, and it's being monitored.

When the store first opened in October, Apple representatives said the company worked closely with the city and referenced historical records to design the building, which it called its "newest and most ambitious" location.

Many other buildings in Chicago have also had to block off walkways and put out warning signs about ice falling after the cold front hit.

Photos by Amber Fisher