Racine Zoo storm damage, closed Friday as crews clear debris
Racine Zoo closed due to storm damage
The Racine Zoo closed on Friday because the campus was littered with broken limbs from storms.
RACINE, Wis. - In Racine County, strong winds snapped power lines and downed trees along the lakefront during Thursday's storms. Even the zoo took a hit.
Storm damage at zoo
What they're saying:
At least 10 large trees fell on the property as 60 mph straight-line winds blew through. It forced the zoo to close for cleanup on Friday.
"We had some tree damage, but this is unheard of," said Beth Heidorn, the zoo's executive director.
The zoo was closed at the time, and no animals or people were injured.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android
"I’m really thankful there was nothing on the animal habitats. All of our animals are safe and sound," said the zoo's Abby Flores.
Volunteers at the zoo collected branches on Friday as crews worked to get the property in order.
"I think that wind caught everyone by surprise. There was damage all around the zoo," said Heidorn.
Featured
Wisconsin storm damage: Mayville, Juneau face long road ahead
The National Weather Service surveyed storm damage in Juneau and Mayville on Friday after officials said likely tornadoes tore through the communities.
Racine County damage
What they're saying:
The zoo wasn't the only area hit in Racine County. Power lines went down in Mount Pleasant, and trees fell along parts of Michigan Boulevard and Main Street in Racine.
Carol Zanotti was out when a huge tree fell into her yard. It could be awhile before it's cleaned up.
The Source: The information in this post was provided by the Racine Zoo.