Zoo, Illuminations at Botanica to close this week ahead of frigid weather conditions
The bitter cold expected later this week is causing closure for two popular outdoor attractions in Wichita.
The Sedgwick County Zoo and Illuminations at Botanica both announced Tuesday that they will be closed Thursday and Friday.
Both places cite the dangerously low temperatures and below-zero wind chills that are forecast to move into Wichita on Wednesday night.
The zoo closing will allow staff to keep animals safe and warm inside, according to a news release from the zoo.
The zoo plans to reopen with normal business hours on Saturday and be open for the holiday weekend, said Jennica King, director of strategic communication.
Illumination tickets purchased for either Thursday or Friday can be used for any other night Illuminations is open for the remainder of the season, said Jamee Ross, director of development.
The other nights are Dec. 20-21 and Dec. 26-31. There is no need to change reservations online, according to a Botanica news release.
Botanica also will be closed during the day on Thursday and Friday.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind chill warning effective from Wednesday night until noon Friday. Weather conditions are expected to improve ahead of the holiday weekend.
Conditions are expected to be worst on Thursday, with wind chills in the minus 25 to 40 range in Wichita and surrounding areas. The forecast high for Wichita is 2 with a wind chill of minus 25. Wind gusts up to 50 mph are also expected.
Friday should be mostly sunny with a high of 12 and low around 4. Saturday, Christmas Eve, could see a high of 22 and a low of 12 at night, according to a detailed forecast.
Christmas Day should be mostly sunny with a high of 34 and remain above 20 at night.