Emergency Response: Disney World Removes Icons from Magic Kingdom

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A vibrant street scene at Disney theme park features people strolling along a main avenue adorned with festive fall decorations. Shops line both sides, and a castle looms majestically in the background under a bright, cloudy sky. Nearby, the entrance to Peter Pan’s Flight draws excited visitors.

Credit: kaleb tapp on Unsplash

UPDATE (10/8): Walt Disney World Resort has now announced that it will close down early on Wednesday, October 9 and it is likely the parks will remain closed through Thursday, October 10.

Walt Disney World Resort is once again making preparations for severe weather, with Cast Members gearing up for extended shifts and Halloween decorations being removed from parts of the Magic Kingdom.

Though Disney has not yet confirmed whether it will close its theme parks, the resort has a detailed emergency plan in place, including the activation of a special team known as the “Ride Out Crew.” This group of dedicated Cast Members will be on call 24/7 during the storm, staying at the resort and ensuring guest safety while keeping the magic alive for those sheltering in place.

A digitally altered image of Disney World with a stormy sky in the background. In front, there's a large red stop sign with the word "CANCELLED" written on it.
Credit: Inside The Magic

Disney World’s Past Hurricanes

Disney World has faced hurricane closures in the past, with notable storms like Hurricane Ian (2022), Hurricane Irma (2017), and Hurricane Charley (2004) forcing temporary shutdowns.

However, the resort has a robust infrastructure designed to withstand severe weather, including buildings like Cinderella Castle, which is constructed to endure a Category 5 hurricane. This means that while the parks may close for safety reasons, they are well-equipped to handle storms.

As of now, it remains unclear whether Disney World will fully close its parks in anticipation of Milton. However, park pass reservations for October 9 have already been blocked out, and resort reservations have ceased for October 9 and 10.

Historically, Disney has closed its parks early or for entire days when hurricanes are expected to make landfall in Central Florida. The resort has extended its cancellation policy, allowing guests to modify or cancel their plans without penalty.

Hurricane Milton: What We Know So Far

Map showing the projected path of Hurricane Milton from the Gulf of Mexico towards the southeastern U.S. over several days, potentially affecting areas near Disney World. The cone indicates possible track zones, with lines marking expected storm positions and intensity.
Credit: National Hurricane Center

Hurricane Milton has weakened slightly, but it remains a Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 150 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

It is expected to make landfall late Wednesday — likely as a Category 3 — bringing damaging winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall to west-central Florida. Orlando, including Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, could experience severe weather effects from Milton, leading to disruptions at the resort.

While Disney’s resort infrastructure is built to handle hurricanes, guest safety remains the top concern. Should the storm intensify or shift course, it is possible that Disney World will implement further closures or restrictions. However, for now, the main focus seems to be on keeping things running as smoothly as possible for the guests already on the property.

Halloween Decorations Already Being Removed

Disney has already begun the process of removing several Halloween decorations in Magic Kingdom Park in preparation for Hurricane Milton.

A large Cinderella-style castle at a theme park, surrounded by trees and lamp posts. People are walking and gathering around the area on a cloudy day.
Credit: Inside the Magic

Guests walking along Main Street, U.S.A., may notice that after Casey’s Corner, many of the signature pumpkin wreaths and festive displays have been taken down. While the Main Street, U.S.A. decor will remain for tonight’s Halloween party, much of the park’s Halloween-themed décor is expected to be removed overnight as the resort braces for Milton’s impact, we’ve been told.

This kind of preemptive action is standard practice when a hurricane is imminent, ensuring that nothing is left that could become a hazard during high winds.

Festive Halloween decorations at Disney World showcase a large Mickey Mouse pumpkin surrounded by autumn leaves. Colorful buildings line the street under a partly cloudy sky, with an American flag visible in the background, capturing the vibrant spirit of the season.
Credit: ITM

The Role of the ‘Ride Out Crew’ at Disney World

One unique aspect of Disney’s hurricane preparation is the deployment of the “Ride Out Crew.” These are Cast Members who apply to be part of a special team, staying on-site at Disney resorts or other key locations during the storm. The selection process for this crew is meticulous, and once chosen, members are required to remain on duty for the entire duration of the storm.

These Disney Cast Members are provided accommodations within the resort but are allegedly not allowed to bring family or pets.

Once the crew clocks in, they reportedly do not clock out until the storm passes. This can mean several days of continuous work, with no break from their responsibilities. Roles within the crew extend beyond emergency response, as the team also includes character performers, bartenders, and other positions that help entertain and care for guests who may be stuck in the resort during the storm.

The dedication of the Ride Out Crew reflects Disney’s commitment to ensuring guest experiences are as seamless as possible, even during challenging weather conditions. These team members play a crucial part in keeping the atmosphere magical, even when safety and security become top priorities.

Current closures at Walt Disney World

Guests at around a campfire at Fort Wilderness while on their Disney World vacation.
Credit: Disney

As Disney continues to prepare for Hurricane Milton, we anticipate more updates about possible park closures or extended cancellations. In the meantime, Cast Members are working tirelessly to ensure both guest safety and the continuation of some level of entertainment, even during this challenging time.

At the time of this writing, the only closures confirmed are the following:

  • Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground (including dining and recreation locations), the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will temporarily close beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9.
  • Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are likely to remain closed until Sunday, October 13.
  • The Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will likely reopen on Friday, October 11.

UPDATE (10/8): Walt Disney World Resort has now announced that it will close down early on Wednesday, October 9 and it is likely the parks will remain closed through Thursday, October 10.

Guests in ponchos in the rain in Toy Story Land at Disney World's Hollywood Studios
Credit: Inside the Magic

If you’re planning to visit Disney World in the coming days, keep an eye on official announcements and be prepared for last-minute changes.

While Disney has not yet confirmed a park-wide shutdown, it’s evident that they are taking the necessary precautions. From the removal of Halloween decorations to the assembly of the Ride Out Crew, the resort is ready for whatever Milton may bring.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to track Hurricane Milton and Disney World’s response.

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