Credit: Inside The MagicThe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued a new warning that is adequate immediately for all Walt Disney World Resort guests.
‘Explosive Hurricane Season’ Continues To See Boost From Atlantic Ocean, Disney World Vacations on Alert
Walt Disney World Resort has been having a less-than-successful summer as heat waves, tropical storms, and more have been slamming into the parks since May, giving way to thousands of guests having to cancel their Disney vacation plans or change them altogether.
This year, the National Hurricane Season made a statement in early 2024 that we would see an instead “explosive” hurricane season, and it sure has been. What started as 15 named storms quickly turned into 25 named storms, and the season hasn’t even peaked yet.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is projected to be significantly more active than in previous years, with experts describing it as potentially “explosive.” Following the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, concerns are mounting about the upcoming season’s intensity. Forecasters predict that there will be between 20 and 25 named storms this year, with 8 to 12 likely to develop into hurricanes.
Also, 4 to 6 hurricanes are expected to land along the U.S. coastline. This forecast marks a sharp increase from the typical season, which averages around 14 named storms. According to AccuWeather, the season is anticipated to be “very active and potentially explosive,” influenced by various factors heightening the risk.
FEMA Sends Out New Warning for State of Florida
The Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index, a critical measure of storm activity, is projected to range from 175 to 225 in 2024. This forecast exceeds the historical average of 123 and surpasses the 2023 index of 145.6, which was already considered above average. FEMA has warned about a tropical storm approaching Florida this weekend, advising residents and visitors to prepare for severe weather conditions.
On Thursday, the state of Florida declared a state of emergency for 54 counties anticipated to face the most significant impact from the storm. FEMA is closely monitoring the situation, highlighting the potential for a tropical depression to develop over the Straits of Florida or the eastern Gulf of Mexico. A Tropical Storm Watch is now in effect for the Florida Keys and the west coast of the Florida peninsula.
A flood watch is in effect for South Florida with more flood watches anticipated to be issued northward up the state.
As Tropical Depression Four is anticipated to cause inland flooding over the weekend & into next week, make sure you know the difference between watches &… pic.twitter.com/v9YDjaDOtz
— FL Division of Emergency Management (@FLSERT) August 3, 2024
A flood watch is in effect for South Florida with more flood watches anticipated to be issued northward up the state. As Tropical Depression Four is anticipated to cause inland flooding over the weekend & into next week, make sure you know the difference between watches & warnings. Have multiple ways to receive alerts & follow all orders by local officials!
The National Hurricane Center forecasts flash flooding across Florida through the weekend due to this system. FEMA has provided several safety recommendations. Individuals should prepare for possible rainfall, coastal and flash flooding, and strong winds. Residents are advised to have a plan to protect themselves, their families, and their pets, considering any specific medical needs.
Knowing how to reconnect with loved ones if separated is crucial. For more information on flood safety, FEMA recommends visiting Ready.gov or Listo.gov. During flooding, FEMA urges people not to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
Conditions are favorable for Tropical Depression Four to strengthen & bring strong winds to Florida.
As you prepare your home remember that if you can pick it up, put it up! Anything left outside could become dangerous projectiles in strong winds.
Listen to all orders by local… pic.twitter.com/y2hnLBF0Fi
— FL Division of Emergency Management (@FLSERT) August 3, 2024
Conditions are favorable for Tropical Depression Four to strengthen & bring strong winds to Florida. As you prepare your home remember that if you can pick it up, put it up! Anything left outside could become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Listen to all orders by local officials & learn more at FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare.
It only takes six inches of moving water to knock someone down and one foot to sweep away a vehicle. Residents should avoid bridges over fast-moving water and adhere to barricades set up by local responders. It is essential to act immediately and be prepared by knowing evacuation routes, necessary items to bring, and trusted information sources if evacuation is required.
The storm, currently called Tropical Depression Four, is expected to intensify and potentially become Tropical Storm Debby as it enters the Gulf of Mexico. Although the storm’s track has shifted west, which could reduce the impact on Central Florida, the Florida Panhandle and North Florida are now likely to face a more substantial impact.
In anticipation of the storm, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will close early today at 7 p.m., and Visit Florida has activated its Expedia Emergency Accommodations Portal to assist visitors in finding hotels.