Hurricane Helene Forces Disney World to Suspend Operations at Several Resort Locations

in Disney Parks, Walt Disney World

A dramatic hurricane like storm brews over a bustling Disney World, with lightning bolts streaking across the sky above the iconic castle.

Credit: Inside The Magic

More closures have been announced at Walt Disney World Resort ahead of Hurricane Helene.

A majestic castle with tall spires and intricate details, illuminated under dramatic dark clouds. The castle is primarily pink with blue rooftops and flags, creating a striking contrast with the stormy sky.
Credit: Inside the Magic

A major storm is approaching, and naturally, these questions arise: Where is it headed, and will the state’s theme parks shut down?

Helene was upgraded to a hurricane on Wednesday morning, with the National Hurricane Center cautioning that it will quickly intensify into a major hurricane over the eastern Gulf of Mexico. As of Wednesday, the highest likelihood of landfall is projected for the eastern Florida Panhandle, particularly the Big Bend area, on Thursday evening.

storm brewing at Walt Disney World
Credit: James Palmer / Flickr

Forecasters have pointed out that Helene’s effects will be felt across the state. Although the storm is not currently on a direct course toward any of Florida’s theme parks, tourists and locals alike may be wondering if their theme park plans will be interrupted. Here’s an update on the status of each theme park and their hurricane policies.

Although forecasts don’t indicate the center of Helene will pass directly through Central Florida, the effects of the tropical system will be felt across the region.

The primary risks for Central Florida associated with Helene include heavy rainfall, possible flooding, gusty winds, and the chance of tornadoes.

According to the National Weather Service, tropical moisture is expected to increase in east Central Florida starting Wednesday as outer rain bands move northward, potentially causing flooding in low-lying and urban areas.

While the risk for severe weather on Wednesday is limited, expect some rain and possibly one or two storms that could generate a tornado.

Stormy weather with lightning striking all around at Magic Kingdom in Disney World with a tornado warning sign to the left.
Credit: Edited by Inside The Magic

As Helene approaches Florida and makes landfall near the Big Bend area, Central Florida may face more serious threats.

Tropical-storm-force winds are expected to extend several hundred miles from Helene’s center, with the NWS warning of possible wind gusts up to 60 mph in certain areas. Additionally, tornadoes embedded in rain bands are possible, especially on Thursday.

A hurricane warning has been issued for western Marion County. A tropical storm warning is in place for all of Central Florida, including:

  • Eastern Marion County
  • Volusia County
  • Lake County
  • Sumter County
  • Seminole County
  • Orange County
  • Osceola County
  • Polk County
  • Brevard County
  • Flagler County

Orlando Theme Park Shut Down Update

Lightning over Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom hub.
Credit: @mickeymania1988

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