Credit: Inside The MagicWalt Disney World Resort is gearing up to close down and cease all operations effective immediately today in preparation for Category 5 Hurricane Milton.
Walt Disney World Braces for Impact as Hurricane Milton Nears Florida Coast
As Hurricane Milton intensifies into a dangerous Category 5 storm, the state of Florida, including the Walt Disney World Resort, is preparing for a significant impact. The storm, with sustained winds of 160 mph, is currently tracking northeast at 14 mph through the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall along Florida’s west-central coast just after midnight.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for the region, cautioning that Hurricane Milton will bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and a high risk of tornadoes to east-central Florida, particularly the Orlando area, which is home to Disney World and other popular attractions.
10AM EDT #Milton Position Update: Ensure you are in your safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. Stay up to date at hurricanes.gov
10AM EDT #Milton Position Update: Ensure you are in your safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. Stay up to date at https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/3SL0QH9V8H
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) October 9, 2024
Watches and Warnings in Place
A Hurricane Warning is now in effect for several Florida counties, including areas surrounding Walt Disney World. The approaching storm is expected to unleash a combination of extreme weather hazards that will disrupt daily life for residents, visitors, and the theme park’s cast members.
Tornado Risk Intensifies
As Hurricane Milton draws closer to Florida’s coast, the risk of tornadoes in east-central Florida is on the rise. National Weather Service meteorologists expect tornado watches to be issued later today, as wind shear associated with the hurricane increases.
These tornadoes can develop quickly within the hurricane’s rainbands, potentially catching residents and visitors off guard. Guests at Walt Disney World and in the surrounding area are urged to remain vigilant and ensure they have access to multiple ways of receiving severe weather alerts.
Damaging Winds to Hit Central Florida
The storm’s outer rainbands are already spreading across central Florida, bringing gusty winds throughout the day. By this evening, wind speeds are expected to escalate, with tropical storm-force winds increasing to hurricane-force gusts overnight.
Strong winds could knock down trees, power lines, and cause widespread outages, which may affect Disney World resort guests and nearby communities. Central Florida residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to seek safe shelter before nightfall to avoid hazardous conditions.
Heavy Rain and Flooding Threatens Central Florida
In addition to the wind threat, significant rainfall is forecast for central Florida, with the heaviest rain expected to fall tonight and into Thursday morning. Meteorologists predict rainfall totals between 6 and 12 inches across the region, with localized amounts of up to 15 inches along the I-4 corridor, which runs through the Orlando area.
This deluge could result in life-threatening flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas and urban regions. Walt Disney World, situated near the flood-prone Reedy Creek basin, could experience localized flooding in certain areas of the resort.
Walt Disney World Implements Closures
Walt Disney World has announced that its theme parks and related entertainment venues will close early on Wednesday, October 9, ahead of the storm’s arrival. These closures affect all four main theme parks, as well as Disney Springs, the resort’s dining and entertainment district. The following is the official schedule for park closures:
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.
- Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will close at 2 p.m.
Walt Disney World officials have stated that they are closely monitoring the storm’s progress and will determine whether additional closures will be necessary for Thursday, October 10. The current forecast suggests that the resort may remain closed through Thursday, though no official announcement has been made.
The highly anticipated Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, scheduled for Thursday night, has been canceled, and guests who purchased tickets for the event will receive automatic refunds.
Resort and Transportation Services Disrupted
Disney’s internal transportation network, including buses, monorails, and boats, will cease operations after the parks close on Wednesday. Limited Minnie Van and Mears taxi services will remain available to resort guests, though availability may be reduced due to the storm.
Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort properties are advised to make necessary arrangements before the transportation shutdown.
Several resort locations are also facing temporary closures due to the storm. These include:
- Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
These resorts will close at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, with plans to reopen in stages once it is safe to do so. The Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Treehouse Villas are expected to remain closed until Sunday, October 13, while the Copper Creek Cabins may reopen as early as Friday, October 11.
Dining and Experiences Adjustments
To accommodate disruptions caused by Hurricane Milton, Disney has suspended its usual cancellation policies for dining reservations and pre-booked experiences. Guests will not be penalized for last-minute cancellations, and those with pre-paid experiences will receive automatic refunds within seven to 10 business days.
Other Central Florida Parks Follow Suit
Other major theme parks in the Orlando area are also taking precautionary measures in light of Hurricane Milton’s impending arrival. Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando have announced that they will remain closed through Thursday, October 10, and will assess the situation before deciding on any potential reopening dates.
Safety First for Guests and Cast Members
As central Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, the safety of both guests and cast members remains a top priority at Walt Disney World. Disney has taken steps to ensure that guests staying at the resort have access to resources, shelter, and information during the storm. Guests are encouraged to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor official updates from Disney and local authorities.
For many, the storm’s impact will be a temporary disruption to their vacations, but for Disney’s cast members and local residents, the focus is on staying safe and protecting their homes and families as Hurricane Milton makes its way across the state.
As the situation evolves, guests should check Disney’s official channels for the latest information on closures, reopenings, and storm-related policies.