Milwaukee County Zoo Preparedness Shielded Animals During Historic Flooding
Milwaukee, WI – When historic rainfall inundated Milwaukee in mid-August, the milwaukee County Zoo was prepared. Despite the unexpected intensity of the flooding event, the zoo’s proactive planning and 24-hour monitoring by staff ensured the safety of all animals.
The recent deluge, which caught many in the region off guard, underscored the increasing importance of robust emergency preparedness for institutions like the zoo. While the area experienced notable damage, the zoo reported only minor issues – a few wet stalls and some substrate runoff – thanks to existing protocols focused on drainage and erosion control. this incident highlights the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare even amidst increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
the zoo’s response began with its dedicated night staff, who continuously monitored drainage systems as the storm approached. Communicating with the incoming day team, they proactively addressed potential issues. “Everybody was in the animal division, and all of our animals were safe and sound,” a zoo representative confirmed.
Preparation isn’t limited to major weather events. Zoo staff routinely assess drainage and potential water buildup during regular rainfall, making adjustments as needed to stay ahead of potential problems. While the scale of the recent flooding was tough to predict, the zoo’s existing plans, which address erosion and drainage, proved invaluable.
“We take our cues from ‘are we seeing rain build up in an area?'” the representative explained. “Not just during historic weather events, but regular events too.And if we are seeing that, we look to adjust that, so that we’re already getting ahead of anything that may be coming our way.” The zoo’s proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding animal welfare in the face of increasingly frequent and severe weather events.
