News

Iconic Six Flags Theme Park Closes Its Doors for Good After 53 Years, Weather Woes Cited

Six Flags Magic Mountain has confirmed its continued closure today, January 26, 2025, as wildfires continue to ravage parts of Southern California. This marks another in a string of closures that have plagued the park due to ongoing environmental conditions.

Guests ride Viper at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Credit: Jeremy Thompson, Flickr

In recent weeks, Southern California has faced extreme weather and fire conditions. A combination of Santa Ana winds, low humidity, and extended dry spells has created a perfect storm for wildfires. Since January 7, at least 27 people have died, and over 200,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes.

Over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, and while many of the fires have been contained, some still rage on. The Hughes Fire, which ignited yesterday morning, has already consumed more than 10,000 acres, with only 14% of the fire contained as of writing. This has led to more evacuations and has forced numerous Southern California attractions to temporarily close, including Universal Studios Hollywood and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

Six Flags Magic Mountain has been impacted multiple times this month, with previous closures on January 8 and 24 due to fires encroaching on the area. Images shared by local residents show thick smoke hanging over the park, while some have captured footage of the fires dangerously close to the park. The park is located just outside the evacuation warning zone, but fire crews are using it as a base of operations.

On its official social media account, Six Flags Magic Mountain posted an announcement, stating, “Due to inclement weather, Magic Mountain will not be open today, Sunday, January 26. Tickets purchased for today will be valid any regular operating day through December 31, 2025.”

Weather reports indicate that conditions in the area may worsen as a flood watch goes into effect on Sunday morning. The rainfall, while needed to help dampen the fire zones, brings with it the risk of mudslides and debris flows, particularly in the areas scarred by recent wildfires.

A winter storm warning is also in effect for the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, with snow expected to accumulate up to 14 inches in some areas, and winds gusting overnight.

The flood watch is expected to last from 10 a.m. on Sunday to Monday afternoon, covering the Eaton, Palisades, Franklin, Bridge, and Hughes burn scars. The National Weather Service has warned of a 10% to 20% chance for significant debris flows over these areas, and as much as 1 to 2 inches of rain could fall in the higher elevations of the region.

Roller coasters
Credit: Six Flags Entertainment

Temperatures on Sunday will be cool, with the Los Angeles and Orange counties experiencing highs of 56°F and lows around 42°F. The Inland Empire and valley areas will see similar conditions, with temperatures hovering in the mid-50s. In contrast, mountain communities will be hit with snow, particularly at elevations around 6,000 feet, where up to 5 inches of snow is expected.

While the weather and fire conditions have led to the temporary closure of Six Flags Magic Mountain, the park is currently scheduled to reopen on January 27, 2025. However, park hours may be impacted in the coming days as conditions continue to develop.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves.

Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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