Two visitors at Disneyland Resort sustained minor injuries late Tuesday night when a tree fell onto them. The incident occurred on the patio of the Plaza Inn, located just off Main Street U.S.A., during a winter storm that brought strong winds to Southern California.
Resort officials confirmed the tree fell around 11:40 p.m. Due to rain, no guests were seated on the patio itself at the time. However, two individuals in the immediate vicinity were affected.
Key Takeaways
- A tree fell at Disneyland's Plaza Inn patio late Tuesday night.
- Two guests sustained minor injuries and received first aid.
- Heavy winds from a winter storm are believed to be the cause.
- Park officials quickly removed the tree.
Incident Details and Guest Accounts
Mark and Lewanda Joseph, the couple involved, spoke about the moments leading up to the incident. They were preparing for a Valentine's Day picture package when the tree unexpectedly crashed down.
Lewanda Joseph described the impact, saying, "It knocked me over. So Superman, here, came and picked me up and lifted the branches and all that stuff off of me." Her husband, Mark, acted quickly to assist her.
Fact Check
- Time of Incident: Approximately 11:40 p.m.
- Location: Plaza Inn patio, near Main Street U.S.A.
- Number of Injured: Two guests.
- Nature of Injuries: Minor grazes.
Immediate Response and Recovery
Mark Joseph reported hearing a loud crack moments before the tree fell. His primary concern was his wife's safety.
"In the moment that it happened, I didn't feel anything hit me, because I was more worried about my wife than anything else," Mark Joseph stated.
Park first aid officials promptly treated the couple for minor grazes. They were released after receiving care. The Josephs expressed gratitude for the quick response from park medics.
As a precaution, the couple has scheduled doctor's appointments due to lingering soreness. Despite the experience, they confirmed that the incident will not prevent them from visiting Disneyland in the future.
Weather Conditions and Park Operations
Southern California experienced a significant winter storm on Tuesday, bringing powerful winds and rain. These severe weather conditions are believed to have contributed to the tree's collapse.
Resort officials ensured the tree was removed overnight, minimizing disruption to park operations. Disneyland Resort typically maintains strict safety protocols, especially during adverse weather.
Context on Park Safety
Theme parks like Disneyland employ extensive safety measures, including regular inspections of grounds and attractions. Trees and other natural elements are routinely checked for stability, particularly in areas frequented by guests. Incidents involving natural elements, while rare, can occur during extreme weather events.
Impact on Guests and Future Visits
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of weather effects, even within a controlled environment like a theme park. The swift action of park staff in providing first aid and removing the hazard was crucial.
For many visitors, a trip to Disneyland is a cherished experience. The Josephs' determination to return reflects the strong connection many guests have with the park. Park officials continue to prioritize guest safety across all attractions and common areas.
Ensuring Safety During Storms
Theme parks regularly monitor weather forecasts to make operational adjustments. This includes potentially closing outdoor attractions or sections of the park during high winds or heavy rain to ensure guest safety.
While this particular incident resulted in only minor injuries, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by severe weather. Park management continuously evaluates and updates safety procedures to mitigate risks.
- Park staff respond to emergencies quickly.
- First aid services are readily available.
- Regular maintenance checks are performed on park grounds.
- Weather conditions influence operational decisions.
