Chester Zoo has announced it will close early on Thursday, June 25, due to forecast sweltering temperatures of up to 35°C, as the Met Office issues an amber extreme heat warning for the region.
Closure Details and Safety Measures
The zoo will shut at 2pm on Thursday, citing the safety of visitors and staff. In a Facebook statement, the zoo said: "Due to the extreme heat forecast for the afternoon of Thursday June 25, we’ll be closing early at 2pm for the safety of our visitors and colleagues."
Pre-booked ticket holders are advised to check their emails for further instructions. The zoo will operate as normal on Wednesday and Friday, with keepers ensuring all animals and plants are safely cared for during the heat.
Weather Warnings and Impacts
The Met Office's amber warning covers Chester, Merseyside, Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, Nottingham, Peterborough, and Norwich from midnight Wednesday to 11.59pm Thursday. Red warnings are in place for Cardiff, Oxford, Bath, London, and parts of Birmingham, indicating severe health risks.
Mark Sidaway, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: "Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events... we’re expecting severe and significant impacts from this heatwave, with health impacts likely for many." He noted that the last similar heat was in July 2022, but this time high humidity accompanies the heat.
Health Advice and Disruption
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency, urged preparedness: "It is vitally important that people understand the risk... simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference."
The extreme weather has already caused disruptions, with some schools closing and train services cancelled. The zoo apologised for any disruption, stating: "We do apologise for any disruption to your plans but we really, really hope you understand."
