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Sinkhole Opens up at Florida Theme Park; Millions of Gallons Of “Wastewater” Spill Inside

Disaster has struck at a popular Florida theme park.

The state of Florida is known worldwide for two major attributes: theme parks and tropical storms. Florida is the home base for numerous world-class theme parks and resorts, including the legendary Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. These locations attract millions of fans to central Florida every year, but these vacationers are not always met with perfect weather conditions. Severe tropical weather is known to result in heavy recurring rail showers, lightning, and strong winds. Now, another threat has hit one Florida theme park: a sinkhole!

Related: Guests Are Cancelling Trips to Disney World Due to Unpredictable Florida Weather

Tropical Storm Nicole
Credit: NOAA

15 by 15 Foot Sinkhole Forms in Florida Theme Park

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, a staggering amount of 2.5 million gallons of wastewater recently overflowed into a sinkhole situated right beside the wastewater treatment ponds at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This incident, which occurred earlier this November, has raised concerns about the potential impact on the surrounding environment. The scale of the spill and its location in close proximity to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay highlights the urgency for prompt and effective response in addressing this environmental issue.

The spillage of such a significant volume of wastewater into the sinkhole is indeed alarming. It not only poses a direct threat to the delicate ecosystem in and around the park but also emphasizes the importance of maintaining and improving the measures in place to prevent such incidents from occurring. While many details of the spill are yet to be determined, the incident highlights the need for enhanced monitoring and maintenance of the wastewater treatment infrastructure within the park. The sinkhole was opened up “backstage,” near the Congo River Rapids attraction.

florida theme parks going cashless is walt disney world next seaworld orlando aquatic busch gardens tampa bay adventure island thrill rides water park magic kingdom disney park
Credit: Ashley Carter/ X, Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has been known for its commitment to environmental protection and conservation efforts, making this incident all the more concerning. The park, which is home to a diverse range of animal species, including African animals like elephants, lions, and giraffes, must ensure the continued well-being and safety of its residents.

Theme Park Recovers From Shocking Incident

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will undoubtedly be closely monitoring the situation and overseeing the steps taken by Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in response to this wastewater spillage. It is crucial for the park management to prioritize both the safety of its visitors and the preservation of the natural environment surrounding the park.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Credit: Itai Aarons, Unsplash

The magnitude of the spill and its location near the park emphasize the importance of immediate action and careful management. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay must work alongside the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to rectify the situation, safeguard the wildlife, and preserve the natural beauty surrounding the park. This entire situation is completely shocking, but it is wonderful to know that no one was injured by this incident.

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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