Winter Storm Triggers Multi‑Day Closure for Safety The Columbus Zoo announced a shutdown from Friday through Monday to protect guests, staff, and animals amid an approaching winter storm that brings heavy snow and subzero wind‑chills [1]. Zoo officials emphasized that animal care will continue uninterrupted despite the closure [1][2]. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Watches for southern Ohio, warning of significant snowfall Saturday evening through Sunday night [1].

Forecast Calls for Single‑Digit Temperatures and Harsh Wind‑Chills Temperatures are expected to plunge into the single digits Friday evening, with wind‑chills dropping below zero across central Ohio [1]. The storm’s cold core will intensify Monday night, potentially reaching 3 °F with wind‑chills between –5 °F and –15 °F early Tuesday [2]. These conditions prompted the zoo’s repeated safety messaging on Facebook, citing health risks for visitors and staff [1][2].

Discrepancy in Reported Closure Duration The first article details a Friday‑through‑Monday closure, while the second focuses solely on a Monday shutdown, suggesting the later report may have been issued before the full multi‑day plan was finalized [1][2]. Both sources agree the primary motive is safeguarding people and animals, and both confirm staff will remain on‑site to tend to the collection.