Tampa zoo animals moved to safety ahead of Hurricane Milton

TAMPA, Fla. (WJW) – Human residents are not the only ones trying to leave the Tampa area ahead of Hurricane Milton, the pets and zoo animals are heading for safety too.

ZooTampa is closed beginning on Tuesday, October 8 as animals relocate to storm-proof, safe areas.

According to a Facebook post on Monday, “The zoo has a comprehensive severe weather plan in place to ensure the safety of our animals and team members and will take all precautions as conditions warrant. Our thoughts are with all of our fellow Florida residents.”

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor issued a warning to residents, urging them to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Milton making landfall.

“If you choose to stay in one of those evacuation areas, you are going to die,” Castor warned during an interview with CNN on Monday .

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