Disneyland ParkNews

Disney Park Officially Closing Due to Hurricane

As the ominous winds of Hurricane Hilary bear down on Southern California, one of the world’s most iconic destinations is taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its visitors and employees. Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is temporarily shutting its gates in response to the looming threat posed by the Category 2 hurricane, which is set to land on August 21.

Impending Hurricane
Credit: Canva

Disneyland California Closing Due to Hurricane Hilary

This decision to close Disneyland, including the beloved California Adventure Park, is not one taken lightly. However, the safety and well-being of the thousands of guests who flock to the resort daily and the dedicated cast members who make the magic happen are paramount.

In light of the imminent danger posed by Hurricane Hilary, the park’s management has made a prudent call to close early on Sunday, August 20. Disney California Adventure Park will close at 9 p.m., while Disneyland Park will follow suit at 10 p.m. This preemptive move ensures that guests have ample time to return to their accommodations or make alternative arrangements before the storm’s arrival.

The Downtown Disney District, Disneyland’s hub of shopping and dining just outside the park gates, will also close its doors at 11 p.m. However, the resort’s hotels will remain open, offering a safe haven for those guests who had planned to stay on Disney property during their visit.

Disneyland Has NEVER Closed Due to Hurricane Before

Disneyland Resort’s decision aligns with the overarching principle of prioritizing safety above all else. This is the first time southern California has experienced a hurricane since Hurricane Linda in 1997. Disneyland California has never closed for a hurricane before. It has shut down in the past rarely due to threatening conditions, but never officially for a hurricane.

Hurricane Hilary cone
Credit: National Hurricane Center

Hurricanes are not common in Southern California. However, Walt Disney World in Florida is no stranger to this reality. Disney knows how to react to inclement weather and utilizes extreme caution when necessary. While visitors may be disappointed by the interruption of their Disney experience, their safety remains paramount.

Disney World hurricane season
Credit: Canva

The closure of Disneyland Resort emphasizes that Hurricane Hilary is not to be underestimated. As the storm approaches, residents and visitors in Southern California must heed the warnings, take precautions, and stay informed about the latest developments. The intense weather will likely downgrade to a tropical storm when it reaches Disneyland, but it is important to monitor the National Hurricane Center and Disneyland website for the most up-to-date information.

Michael Stoyanoff

Michael is a Disney fan with an entertainment background and passion for writing. Living in Orlando, he has been around the theme parks for over a decade. In his free time he enjoys running, playing video games, and traveling the world. He also loves hanging out with his dog, Mr. Pippers the Pug.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

Back to top button