TAMPA - 1:15 PM UPDATE: A squirrel is responsible for the power outage that brought Busch Gardens to a standstill for hours Saturday.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is reopened its gates to guests while TECO crews work to restore power to the entire park, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay spokeswoman Karen Varga-Sinka said.
The sprawling, Safari-themed attraction lost power shortly after 10 a.m. Saturday, delaying some guests who had arrived from entering the park.
It appears a squirrel got into a substation breaker, causing the power outage, TECO spokeswoman Sylvia Vega said. The power outage only impacted Busch Gardens.
Power remained out in certain areas of the park Saturday afternoon.
TECO crews were on site, making repairs to get the entire park back online as soon as possible, Vega said.
Here is the most recent statement from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay officials:
"The park is open to guests, we have many options including two restaurants, animal habitats and our award winning ice show for people to enjoy at this time."
"Ambassadors are still working with TECO to get the effect(ed) areas up and running as soon as possible. Anyone who needs options for refunds can go to a ticket window if they are in the park or email BGA.guestinformation@seaworld.com.
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ORIGINAL STORY:
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is at a stand still due to a power outage, a Busch Gardens official said.
No guests are being allowed to enter the park until the power is restored.
The following is the official statement from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: "Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is experiencing a power outage today, May 12," Busch Gardens Tampa Bay spokeswoman Karen Varga-Sinka said in a statement released Saturday morning.
"We are currently delaying entry into the park, and our ambassadors are working with TECO to restore power as soon as possible."
The sprawling amusement park on East Busch Boulevard is a popular destination for families, especially on special occasions such as Mother's Day Weekend.