Chester Zoo closed on Friday 23 October as Storm Austen brought strong winds and heavy rain across the UK, with the attraction saying the decision was made "to help keep everyone safe".
In a message published on its website, the zoo in Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire, said it would remain shut for the day.
The message read: "With Storm Austen set to bring really strong winds, we’ve made the decision to close the zoo on Friday 23 October to help keep everyone safe."
"Our amazing animal teams will, of course, be on site to look after all the animals throughout the day."
Tickets automatically extended
Visitors with tickets booked for Friday 23 October were told there was nothing they needed to do, as tickets have been automatically extended until 31 December 2026, allowing visits on a date of their choosing before then.
For those with daytime or evening bookings for "Our Story" with David Attenborough, rescheduling is available from Saturday, 24 October. Guests are asked to contact the guest services team on 01244 380280 or email guest.services@chesterzoo.org to rearrange their visit.
The zoo added: "We’re really sorry for any disruption to your plans, but we hope you understand."
Yellow weather warnings issued
The closure came after the Met Office issued several yellow weather warnings, with strong winds expected across Merseyside and other parts of the UK, particularly the south west of England.
The yellow warning for wind covering Chester stated: "Whilst the winds across the warning area are not expected to be as strong as those further south and west, a spell of inland gales is possible with gusts around 45 to 55mph during Friday daytime. In combination with locally heavy rain and many trees still in full leaf, there is potential for some power outages and travel disruption."
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Chris Bulmer said: "Storm Austen is expected to bring a spell of impactful weather to parts of the UK from Thursday night and through Friday. While there remains some uncertainty about the storm's exact track, there is increasing confidence in the potential for disruptive winds across parts of southwest England, which is why an Amber warning has been issued."
"Wind gusts could potentially reach 60-70 mph for a time, and these strong winds will be combined with spells of heavy rain. People in affected areas should keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings as the event develops."
