Marwell Zoo was hit by 'a tornado' during yellow weather warning as public warned to stay away

The twister was captured on CCTV as it swept through the car park of the zoo, near Winchester, damaging cars and trees – but the animals were unharmed

The heavy winds also caused damage to signage and lamp posts at just after 4pm on Sunday, October 23.

A zoo spokeswoman said: ‘Thankfully, the wind was highly localised, and the rest of the zoo was undamaged. Both the zoo’s animals and staff are also safe.

‘CCTV footage caught the sudden moment extremely high winds caused damage to signage, lamp posts, trees, and cars.’

She added that the main access road was also closed over safety concerns but an alternative route was available for visitors on Tuesday.

James Cretney, chief executive at Marwell Wildlife, said: ‘I couldn’t believe it. The car park looked like something from a Hollywood movie set, such was the force of this tornado.

‘More evidence, as if we needed it, of the increased volatility and ferocity of weather due to climate change.

‘Thankfully, no-one was hurt, and it didn’t affect the zoo. My sincerest thanks to the emergency services, AA, and of course Marwell staff for sorting the mess out.’

The public were advised to stay away from the zoo on Monday if they hadn’t already booked tickets.

A spokeswoman added: ‘We ask annual members and others who have not booked to postpone your visit – tickets have been switched off for this day.’