5 days Ago By Gabriela Martinez
In the wake of an unprecedented windstorm and subsequent wildfires tearing through Southern California, Universal Studios Hollywood and its adjacent entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, have been coerced into a temporary shutdown. As fires continue to ravage the region, these closures signal a concerning day for the tourism and entertainment industry in the area. KTLA reported that the decision was made as a safety measure against the current "extreme wind conditions.
" The attractions, normally bustling with visitors, are eerily quiet today, as officials have put public safety front and center. According to the same KTLA report , the Palisades Fire, raging in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades neighborhood, has consumed over 5,000 acres. The Eaton Fire near Altadena has claimed the lives of two individuals and has engulfed more than 2,220 acres, while the Sepulveda Basin's Woodley Fire increased rapidly to 75 acres earlier this morning.
Universal Studios Hollywood issued a statement, underscoring the precariousness of the situation. "We will continue to assess the situation and expect to open for business tomorrow. The safety of our team members and our guests is our top priority," the theme park commented, a stance mirrored on their social media, as mentioned by a post from their official account.
This move is in line with Universal's established protocol for unforeseen events impacting their operations. Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will be closed today as a result of the extreme winds and fire conditions. We will continue to assess the situation and expect to open for business tomorrow.
The safety of our team members and our guests is our top priority. While these closures represent a significant hiccup, especially for visitors who traveled great distances to experience a touch of Hollywood magic, the actions taken by Universal Studios Hollywood are indicative of a broader need for emergency readiness in a state that has become, all too familiar with the dangers of wildfires. The Hurst Fire, near Sylmar, which also sprung up amidst this latest windstorm and has already burned more than 500 acres.
As the situation develops, further updates are expected. Local officials and Universal Studios Hollywood will likely provide more information as they monitor the evolving conditions. For now, tourists will have to look elsewhere for their entertainment, and locals are urged to stay safe and remain vigilant as California confronts yet another wildfire crisis.
.
