The Houston Zoo faced significant challenges during Hurricane Beryl, which made landfall in Matagorda and brought life-threatening conditions to the area. The zoo’s dedicated team worked tirelessly to prepare, protect the animals, and restore the grounds after the storm’s impact.
Preparation and Impact
The zoo’s leadership, including Chief Mission Officer Lisa Marie Avendano and Vice President of Conservation and Education Ben Jones, stayed overnight to care for the animals and safeguard the zoo’s facilities. The storm caused damage to the zoo, primarily affecting roofs and leading to interior flooding in areas like the Brown Education Center (BEC). Additionally, numerous downed and compromised trees were scattered across the campus, requiring extensive clearing efforts.
Animal Safety
The zoo’s enclosures remained intact, ensuring that all animals were safe in their nighthouses and barns throughout the event. The zoo’s animal care staff had worked closely with the animals daily, teaching them behaviors that ensured their welfare during the storm. The dedicated ride-out team ensured that critical life support systems remained operational throughout the power outage, which lasted over 24 hours. Temporary generators supplemented the permanent generators in key areas to maintain essential systems.
Cleanup and Reopening
The zoo remained closed for five days to allow for cleanup and recovery efforts. The staff worked tirelessly to clear debris, particularly along the back perimeter of the zoo, and make repairs to damaged areas. The zoo reopened to the public on Saturday, July 13, with limited operations. To celebrate the reopening, the zoo offered special tickets for $7.13 on Saturday and Sunday, providing a welcoming space for families and communities to gather.
Key Statistics and Figures
The Houston Zoo is home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 500 species. The zoo was closed for five days, from July 9 to July 13, due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl. The zoo offered special tickets for $7.13 on Saturday and Sunday, July 13 and 14, respectively, to welcome visitors back.