(From Hersheypark Facebook Fan Page, July 24, 2018.)
Animals may not know enough on their own to come in from the rain. But at least some of the inhabitants of ZooAmerica, which is part of Hersheypark, were given a little prodding.
Because of historic flooding from heavy downpours in central Pennsylvania many of the animals affected by the rain were moved from their exhibits to a “safe temporary area within the Zoo until conditions improve, while under the care and attention of our Zoo staff,” said spokesperson Kaylee R. Dugan. “Our naturalists have moved affected animals to safe areas and will remain on site to ensure animal comfort and safety.”
The flooding caused evacuations from flooded homes, and Derry Township, where the amusement park and zoo are located, declared an emergency.
Hersheypark and ZooAmerica closed Monday after heavy rain and flash flooding caused Spring Creek, which runs through the amusement park, to rise. The park reopened Tuesday and was then closed again “for the safety of our guests and employees,” the spokesperson said.
“All of our animals continue to do well. We were all thankful for some sunshine and a break in the rain today! Staff is busy taking care of all the animals and cleaning up the zoo. Many of our animals continue to wait out the rain in their temporary housing,” said Dugan.
“Many of our animals continue to wait out the rain in their temporary housing. All of the animals are doing well and our pronghorn fawns are still eager for their bottles and bonding time with their keepers.” (From ZooAmerica Facebook Fan Page, July 24, 2018.)
“Our team is closely monitoring this fast-moving storm system to determine its continued impact on our region, guests and employees — including impacts to roads, bridges and highways leading to the park,” Hersheypark posted Wednesday on Twitter and Facebook.
Dauphin County officials called the flooding historic, the worst they’ve seen since Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. Rainfall totals of up to 7 to 11 inches have soaked central Pennsylvania over the past week.
Given the weather impact to roads, Hersheypark and ZooAmerica was closed on Thursday, July 26th, but we’re happy to report that Hersheypark, the Boardwalk and ZooAmerica will reopen at 10 am on Friday, July 27th. More than 60 rides and attractions will be open for guests to enjoy.
