Columbus Zoo Extends Shutdown to Feb. 1 After Record Snowstorm
Updated (3 articles)
Zoo Closure Extended to February 1 for Safety The Columbus Zoo announced it will stay closed through Feb. 1, halting access to all public exhibits and the aquarium. The decision was posted on the zoo’s official Facebook page and confirmed via its communication channels. Management cited the need to protect visitors, employees, and the animal collection from the ongoing extreme cold [1].
Historic Snowfall Tops Seasonal Records Central Ohio received more than 16 inches of snow, with suburbs around Columbus reporting up to 13 inches. Meteorologists ranked the storm as the season’s biggest and the fifth‑largest snowfall ever recorded in the city. These measurements guided emergency responses and contributed to the zoo’s closure decision [1].
Subzero Temperatures and Wind Chill Remain Dangerous Forecasts predict subzero air temperatures to continue through the end of January, with wind chills staying dangerously low for at least a week. The region remains under a Weather Impact Alert, prompting officials to advise residents to limit outdoor exposure. The prolonged cold spell intensifies risks for both humans and animals [1].
Staff Maintain Continuous Animal Care Despite the public shutdown, zoo staff continue to monitor and care for the animal collection around the clock. The Facebook announcement emphasized that animal welfare remains a top priority throughout the cold snap. Ongoing care ensures the health of the animals until the zoo can safely reopen [1].
Timeline
Jan 15, 2026 – Forecasters warn that central Ohio will face snow this weekend and “steadily colder temperatures into early next week,” with highs expected in the 20s and wind chills dropping to –5 °F to –15 °F, setting the stage for hazardous conditions [2].
Jan 19, 2026 – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium closes for the day, posting on Facebook that “the safety and health of guests, staff and animals is our top priority,” and assures the public that animal care continues despite the frigid weather [3].
Jan 19, 2026 – The Columbus Metropolitan Library opens a portion of its main branch as a cold‑weather shelter from noon to 9 p.m., offering seating, Wi‑Fi and restrooms while stating it provides a “temporary refuge for residents during a period of extreme cold” [2].
Jan 20‑21, 2026 – A major winter storm blankets central Ohio with more than 16 inches of snow, making it the season’s largest event and the fifth‑largest on record for Columbus, prompting emergency alerts and widespread closures [1].
Jan 21, 2026 – The zoo extends its shutdown, announcing it will remain closed through Feb 1 because “protecting the health of visitors, employees, and the animal collection is our top priority” as subzero temperatures and dangerous wind chills persist [1].
Jan 22‑30, 2026 – Subzero temperatures and wind chills continue across the region, keeping the Weather Impact Alert active; officials advise residents to limit outdoor exposure and monitor 10TV for ongoing closure updates [1].
Jan 28, 2026 – 10TV maintains a live list of service disruptions and provides continuous updates on the zoo’s closure and other weather‑related impacts, helping the public stay informed during the prolonged cold snap [1].
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- https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17aHwhEg5Q/ (cited 1 times)