SeaWorld San Diego To Shut Down Due To Coronavirus

SAN DIEGO, CA — SeaWorld San Diego will temporarily shut down amid the new coronavirus outbreak.

SeaWorld Entertainment announced Friday that it would close all of its theme parks Monday, March 16, through the end of the month. The decision was made "out of an abundance of caution" for staff members and visitors, according to the company.

"During the time essential personnel, including animal care experts, will continue to look after the health, safety and nutritional needs of the animals in our care," the announcement said. "Our animal rescue and rehabilitation operations will also continue to operate."

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Full-time staff will continue to be paid while the parks are closed, according to SeaWorld.

"We are monitoring this evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation closely and coordinating with public health officials," the announcement said. "We look forward to welcoming our valued guests back to our parks soon."

Legoland California and the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have also announced closures.

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