As wildfires rage across Los Angeles, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands to evacuate, Disneyland Resort has reportedly stepped in to assist its employees, offering emergency lodging rates at the Disneyland Hotel for those displaced by the blazes.
Southern California is currently grappling with one of its most severe wildfire outbreaks in history, fueled by dry conditions and powerful Santa Ana winds. The Palisades and Eaton Fires, among others, have scorched thousands of acres, destroyed homes, and claimed at least five lives. As the fires continue to spread, the situation remains dire, with the head of the National Weather Service warning yesterday that “the worst is yet to come.”
Los Angeles Wildfires Update
The Palisades Fire is currently the largest of the many blazes, spanning over 17,000 acres with no containment in sight. Meanwhile, other fires, such as the Eaton, Lidia, Hurst, and Sunset Fires, are also wreaking havoc across Los Angeles County, with numerous communities significantly impacted by the ongoing destruction.
The wildfires have forced the closure of several major Southern California attractions. Universal Studios Hollywood and its adjoining Universal CityWalk closed yesterday, canceling plans to reopen on January 9 due to the escalating fire threat. Other venues, such as Six Flags Magic Mountain, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and the Los Angeles Zoo, are also closed to the public.
Disneyland Resort’s Response to the Crisis
While Disneyland Resort, located in Anaheim, has not been directly impacted by the fires—being roughly 30 miles away from the nearest blaze—it has still felt the effects of the ongoing crisis. A number of the resort’s cast members live in the affected areas and are facing displacement due to the fires.
In response, Disneyland Resort is reportedly offering discounted emergency rates for cast members at Disneyland Hotel.
Sharing from a cast member for Disney cast members in the LA area
Sharing from a cast member for Disney cast members in the LA area pic.twitter.com/OvymcW5JI3
— Matt Desmond (@DisneyScoopGuy) January 9, 2025
While the resort has not officially confirmed the details, social media posts from affected employees suggest that Disney is helping cast members displaced by the fires find temporary lodging. Employees are encouraged to call ahead to confirm availability, though space is said to be limited.
This move aligns with past efforts by Disney to support its employees during natural disasters. In 2023, Walt Disney World offered 50% off hotel stays to those impacted by Hurricane Idalia, including evacuees and first responders.
While The Walt Disney Company is yet to issue a statement on the ongoing wildfires, CEO Bob Iger shared a video of the destruction in Pacific Palisades yesterday with his own thoughts.
“I drove through Pacific Palisades today and witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by the fires,” Iger wrote on his Instagram. “My heart goes out to everyone who has lost homes and businesses, and to all whose lives have been impacted, including thousands of Disney employees.”
This is a developing story. Information is subject to change as new updates become available.
