
A prominent theme park has announced a temporary closure from January 19 through January 22 to protect its animals from the harsh and potentially life-threatening weather conditions forecasted for the area.
Life-Threatening Weather Prompts Zoo Closure
Meteorologists at AccuWeather are warning of dangerously low wind chills expected to plummet below zero throughout the weekend, with frostbite risks occurring in just minutes. A winter storm warning has been issued for the region, predicting heavy snowfall, icy winds, and hazardous travel conditions.
Given the forecasted winter conditions and predicted low temps, ZooAmerica will be closed Sunday, Jan 19 through Wednesday, Jan 22. Our zoo team will continue to provide daily care to ensure the wellbeing of all animals and team members. @HersheyPA hours bit.ly/2KvLAF6
https://twitter.com/Hersheypark/status/1880729406622097743
ZooAmerica’s leadership has taken these warnings seriously, prioritizing the welfare of its animals. “The health and safety of our animals is always our primary concern,” a ZooAmerica representative explained. “We’ve decided to close to ensure we can fully focus on keeping our wildlife safe and comfortable during this extreme weather event.”
During the closure, ZooAmerica has implemented several steps to maintain optimal conditions for its animals, including:
- Transferring animals to heated indoor spaces designed for extreme weather conditions.
- Providing additional bedding and insulation to maintain warmth in their environments.
- Increasing staff oversight to closely monitor animal health and safety.
These proactive steps reflect ZooAmerica’s commitment to high standards of animal care, ensuring their protection in the face of dangerously cold temperatures.
Impact on Visitors and Hersheypark Operations
While ZooAmerica will remain closed through January 22, Hersheypark will continue operations with safety modifications in place. Guests are urged to dress appropriately for the cold weather and to monitor updates on the park’s official website and social media channels for the latest information.
To accommodate visitors, Hersheypark has added safety measures, including:
- Enhanced snow removal and salting on walkways.
- Designated warming areas throughout the park.
- Real-time weather monitoring to address potential hazards.
ZooAmerica, a North American wildlife park within Hersheypark, is home to over 200 animals native to the continent. The zoo’s mission emphasizes education, conservation, and fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife. By temporarily closing during this storm, ZooAmerica upholds its commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for its animals.
Looking Forward: Theme Park Guests Stay Safe!
ZooAmerica’s temporary closure reflects its unwavering dedication to animal welfare. While the decision may inconvenience some visitors, it underscores the zoo’s responsibility to its animals and their care.
ZooAmerica plans to reopen on January 23, weather conditions permitting. Visitors are encouraged to stay connected through the zoo’s official channels for updates on reopening plans and park conditions. The theme park community can take pride in ZooAmerica’s proactive approach to ensuring safety for all its inhabitants.