We may love to bring you the latest updates on all things Disney, but an impending storm on the horizon has taken center stage right now.
With Hurricane Milton now a powerful Category 4 storm, the state of Florida is bracing for significant impacts. Governor Ron DeSantis provided an urgent update this morning, calling on residents in the storm’s path to get ready for what could be a devastating event.
Hurricane Milton, with sustained winds of 150 mph, is expected to make landfall along Florida’s west coast by Wednesday, potentially striking Tampa and then moving across Central Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis stressed the need for immediate preparation, especially for those living in coastal and flood-prone areas.
“If you’re on that west coast of Florida, barrier islands, just assume you’ll be asked to leave,” he said during the briefing.
The governor added that residents still have time to make arrangements, but they should not delay in securing their homes and gathering essential supplies.
The state has already begun large-scale preparations, delivering fuel reserves and water supplies to various locations across Central Florida. With a state of emergency already declared for 51 counties, National Guard troops have been mobilized to assist in emergency response efforts, particularly in areas that may face mass evacuations.
What Does This Mean for Disney World?
For Disney fans planning a visit, the big question is whether the parks will remain open. As of now, Disney World is operating normally. In a statement, Disney said, “Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected storm as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.”
However, Disney is taking precautionary steps. The resort has already suspended new hotel and park reservations for Wednesday, October 9, in anticipation of potential disruptions. Additionally, Disney is waiving change and cancellation fees for guests with reservations from October 6 through October 12. This means that those with plans during this time can adjust or cancel their bookings without penalty.
Although Disney has not officially announced any closures, these actions indicate that they are preparing for the possibility of shutting down the parks if the storm worsens. In the past, Disney has closed during hurricanes like Irma and Ian, so it’s important for guests to stay informed and monitor the situation as Hurricane Milton approaches.
For now, Disney remains open, but the situation is fluid. As always, safety is the top priority, and we’ll keep you updated on any changes as more information becomes available. With the potential for this storm to have a major impact on Central Florida, guests should be prepared for last-minute changes to their plans.
