Zoo Miami is closing for Hurricane Ian. Here’s what will happen to the animals
The (semi) good news: Hurricane Ian won’t make landfall in South Florida, but we’re not exactly out of the woods.
According to the weather service, from Tuesday through Thursday, the region could see massive amounts of rain, from 4 to 8 inches, rip currents and flash flooding.
Floridians could start to feel Ian’s winds and rains Tuesday, with hurricane conditions expected along the west coast Wednesday.
If you have any events planned, you may want to check with the organizer’s website or social media for any updates. As far as closures, Zoo Miami is not taking any chances and shutting its doors Tuesday through Thursday.
Originally the attraction was only going to close for two days, but changed course after Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava shut public schools and parks through Thursday.
“This is in an abundance of caution to allow proper assessment of any damages and/or flooding caused as a result of Hurricane Ian as well as to avoid any challenges and dangers that may be present due to flooding by allowing individuals to remain home and safe,” said the zoo in a statement.
Employees will be getting the zoo ready for the storm, according to an Instagram post.
“Though Miami is presently not within the cone of concern with regard the hurricane itself, significant wind and rain is possible from outer bands that could result in damage and interruption in services,” says the South Miami attraction. “Therefore, zoo staff will spend Tuesday storing any objects that may become airborne or vulnerable in strong winds as well as ensuring that all equipment (vehicles, generators, maintenance tools, etc.) are fueled and tested.”
As for the critters, they’ll be secured in their evening holding areas early on Tuesday, along with food and fresh water “in preparation for what likely will be an extended period of what will hopefully only be inclement weather but ready for what may be worse.”
On Wednesday, staff will assess any damage and flooding concerns that may restrict some animals from accessing their habitats due to water levels in the surrounding moats.
During Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the catastrophic storm demolished the flamingo habitat, and birds had to be famously herded into the bathroom into the facility then known as Miami Metrozoo.
READ MORE: These places were damaged or destroyed during Hurricane Andrew. Here’s an update
After the unforgettable Cat 5, it took more than 10 years for the zoo to completely rebuild; the aviary didn’t reopen until 2003, Zoo Miami spokesman Ron Magill told the Miami Herald for Andrew’s 30th anniversary.
This story was originally published September 26, 2022 at 1:30 PM.
