The store is closed, and Walmart officials say it will remain so all weekend – while cleaning crews work to sanitize the entire building.
“Mooney’s Super Walmart does a tremendous amount of business and has an impact on people,” says Visalia Mayor Steve Nelson.
Officials would not confirm whether the closure was linked to a COVID outbreak, but said so in a statement – “Everything we do is for the well-being of our partners and clients and in consideration of guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). and health experts. We will continue to work closely with elected and local health officials, adjusting how we serve the community. “
Nelson says he’s still waiting to find out the cause of the closure.
“I read their press release,” he said. “There is talk of a pandemic, but it has never solidified that it is due to a COVID situation.”
Many shoppers have been redirected to the Walmart location on Nobel Avenue.
By late Saturday afternoon, the parking lot was full.
“If you’re worried, there are different ways to shop,” Nelson said. “You can shop online, you can go to your locally owned business, there are fewer people packed into the store.”
The Walmart Supercenter on Mooney is expected to reopen on Monday at 7 am.
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