Will Disney World Reopen on Friday? The Latest on Reopening Efforts

Hurricane Milton, now a Category 4 storm, has disrupted daily life across Central Florida, leading to major closures, including the temporary shutdown of Walt Disney World Resort.

What began as a Category 5 storm has since weakened, but its power remains significant enough to warrant tornado watches and curfews throughout the region.

As of October 9, 2024, Walt Disney World has extended its closure through Thursday, October 10, and the situation remains fluid, as we reported.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a fan-favorite event scheduled for Thursday, has been canceled, and Disney has issued full refunds for those tickets. Park reservations for the week have been paused, with Disney Springs also shut down as the resort waits for the storm to pass. Additionally, resort fees for cancellations and changes have been waived to accommodate guests affected by the closures.

When Will Disney World Reopen?

First, let’s start by saying that our thoughts and prayers are with all those who will be impacted by Hurricane Milton. In the grand scheme of things, when Disney World reopens is simply not important compared to the losses and such that many will face at the hands of the storm.

As of now, there is hope that Walt Disney World may reopen by Friday, October 11. However, much of this depends on the extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Milton, not only at the resort itself but also in the surrounding Central Florida area. Disney has always emphasized safety as its top priority, meaning the parks will remain closed until conditions are safe for guests and staff.

Historically, Disney has seen several closures due to hurricanes, but the length of the shutdowns varies depending on the severity of the storm and the resulting damage. The longest closure occurred during Hurricane Irma in 2017 when Disney World was shut down for two full days. Depending on the extent of Hurricane Milton’s impact, the current closure could extend beyond Friday, especially if there are widespread issues such as downed trees, flooding, or road closures in the region.

The timing of Disney World’s reopening will also be influenced by how quickly the area’s infrastructure can be restored. Even if the parks themselves emerge relatively unscathed, the condition of roads, airports, and public utilities will be critical. Flooded streets or power outages in nearby areas could prevent the resort from safely welcoming guests back, even if the parks are physically ready.

The Path to Reopening: Friday or Later?

Though the goal is to reopen the parks by Friday, it’s far from guaranteed. Once the storm passes, Disney will need to assess any damage across its properties and make necessary repairs before reopening. This includes ensuring that pathways are clear, ride systems are functioning, and no major hazards remain.

Moreover, the impact on transportation infrastructure will play a significant role. Orlando’s airports, a critical gateway for tourists, may face delays in reopening depending on storm damage and flooding. If the airports are closed for an extended period, it could reduce the number of guests arriving at the resort, even if the parks are ready to open.

While Disney remains hopeful for a quick recovery, the aftermath of Hurricane Milton could extend closures through the weekend. The damage left in the storm’s wake—both at Disney World and throughout Central Florida—will ultimately determine when the parks can safely reopen to the public.

For now, guests should stay updated through official channels for the latest reopening news. The situation remains fluid, and while the resort is preparing to welcome guests back as soon as possible, safety will always be the top priority.