Due to high winds that have caused at least two dozen large trees to fall in and around the Balboa Park area, the City of San Diego has closed Balboa Park to public access on Thursday, Jan. 26. Balboa Park Golf Course, Presidio Park and Chollas Lake are also being closed to the public. City crews are working to remove tree limbs and branches that have fallen and are blocking streets and walkways. Streetlights are also being impacted by the high winds.

City teams will be monitoring the high winds and working to clean up public areas around Balboa Park, within Presidio Park and nearby Morley Field. Visitors are asked to avoid trying to enter Balboa Park and to use caution in and around these areas. Employees working in the park, museums and other cultural institutions in Balboa Park are asked to leave for the day.

Closures will remain in effect for the rest of the day out of an abundance of caution to protect public safety. The City will evaluate conditions prior to reopening park areas to public access tomorrow.

During windy conditions, San Diegans are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings, stay away from large trees with heavy branches, and to use caution during their commutes. To report downed trees or streetlights, use the City’s Get It Done app or call 619-527-7500.