Walt Disney World Resort has announced a comprehensive shutdown of its theme parks and Disney Springs as it prepares for Hurricane Milton, which is currently a Category 4 storm.
Related: Impending Calamity Halts Over 100 Flights: Disney World Guests Given Evacuation Order
Overview of Closures at Disney World
Walt Disney World Resort has announced a comprehensive shutdown of its theme parks and Disney Springs as it prepares for Hurricane Milton, which is currently a Category 4 storm. The closures are set to begin on October 9, with different phases in place for each park. At 1 p.m., Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will cease operations.
NEW: Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs will close early on Wednesday. Animal Kingdom and DHS will close at 1pm. Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will close at 2pm. Theme parks likely to remain closed on Thursday. MNSSHP on Thursday is canceled.
NEW: Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs will close early on Wednesday.
Animal Kingdom and DHS will close at 1pm. Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will close at 2pm.
Theme parks likely to remain closed on Thursday. MNSSHP on Thursday is canceled. pic.twitter.com/TbMm3wwPKl
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) October 8, 2024
Subsequently, at 2 p.m., Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will also close. All parks are expected to remain closed through October 10, with the possibility of Disney Springs reopening on Thursday afternoon, though with limited offerings. The decision to close has been made in light of the anticipated severe weather conditions, as safety remains the top priority for both visitors and staff members.
Safety Measures for Guests and Staff at Disney World
Walt Disney World has implemented a series of safety measures in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. The resort’s Emergency Operations Center is maintaining constant communication with weather experts and local authorities to monitor the storm’s trajectory closely. This proactive approach is designed to ensure that guests and Cast Members can return to their resort hotels or homes safely before the brunt of the severe weather arrives in Central Florida. The focus remains on minimizing risks and enhancing safety protocols across the entire resort during this tumultuous period.
Related: BREAKING: Universal Orlando Announces Hurricane Closure
Transportation and Recreational Services
As part of the emergency protocols, Walt Disney World’s transportation systems will halt operations shortly after the parks close on October 9. This includes buses, monorails, and boats, effectively suspending all guest transport services. Limited taxi services will remain available for guests needing to navigate the resort area.
Furthermore, recreational activities will also be impacted, with closures for facilities like Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Winter Summerland Miniature Golf, and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf. The resort’s Blizzard Beach, which is already under refurbishment, will continue its closure during this period.
Related: Another Florida Theme Park Ceases All Operations Due to Hurricane Milton
Adjustments to Reservations and Dining at Disney World
In response to the impending storm, Walt Disney World has relaxed its cancellation policies for dining and other experiences. Effective immediately, guests will not incur cancellation fees, allowing them a more flexible approach in light of changing travel plans. Prepaid experiences will be refunded automatically within 7 to 10 business days, providing peace of mind for those who had made prior arrangements.
Additionally, the resort has announced that cancellation and change fees for hotel reservations booked for the dates surrounding the storm have been waived, facilitating a smooth process for guests needing to modify their stay. This generous approach underscores Disney’s commitment to guest welfare during the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton.
The Walt Disney World Emergency Operations Center will remain operational throughout the storm, keeping a watchful eye on conditions to ensure the safety of everyone on property. Updates on closures, reopenings, and any further adjustments will be posted on Disney’s official website and social media channels.
