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Animals, staff safe after fire at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Animals, staff safe after fire at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

On By Littum

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Firefighters battled a fire Wednesday afternoon in The RainForest at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

The rainforest is currently closed for construction and a zoo spokesman said all animals and staff are safe.

According to firefighters, the 2-alarm fire damaged the exhibit’s exterior and roof.

Firefighters say workers used a torch to cut metal on the building’s exterior and the vegetation ignited.

Firefighters battle a blaze at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Firefighters battle a blaze at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo(Source: Cleveland Division of Fire)

The rainforest closed on September 9, 2024. It is expected to reopen in 2026, housing gorillas and orangutans.

Firefighters battle a blaze at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Firefighters battle a blaze at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo(Source: Cleveland Division of Fire)

Cleveland firefighters say the fire was ruled accidental. No injuries were reported.

This is a development story. Return to 19 News for updates.

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