If you have visited Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, or are a big Disney World fan, then you know that every year, hurricanes are an issue. The Sunshine State has a hurricane season that runs from the beginning of June through the end of November. During that time, thunderstorms and rain are an almost daily occurrence. Residents also prepare for the inevitable news that a hurricane is on the way.
Walt Disney World has a number of safety protocols in place for when a hurricane hits. Guests are given instructions to keep them safe, parts of the theme parks are tied down, and, in extreme conditions, the parks are closed altogether. At this point, Disney World has its hurricane procedures down pat.
But what about Disneyland Resort?
Now, if you’re wondering why Disneyland Resort would ever need to worry about hurricanes, it’s a valid question. The last time a hurricane hit Southern California was in 1939. However, Hurricane Hilary is currently barreling toward the Happiest Place on Earth, hitting Baja California in the early afternoon of August 20.
Does Disneyland have hurricane procedures? The short answer is no. Guests visiting Disneyland are more likely to experience an earthquake than a hurricane, and cast members know how to handle an earthquake. A hurricane? Not so much.
On August 19, Disney announced that both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure would be closing at 10 p.m. and 9 p.m., respectively, on August 20. However, the brunt of the storm is supposed to hit in the early evening. So, guests and cast members will still be in the parks when the worst of the winds and rain are to be expected.
The big issue is that Southern California is not prepared to handle a lot of rain. The area is mainly desert, so rainfall is very frequent. Experts have said that Hurricane Hilary could bring 2 to 3 years’ worth of rain to the area in just a matter of hours. That most likely will lead to a lot of flash flooding, and, in some places, mudslides. Guests visiting Disneyland Resort may find themselves wading through some deep puddles. Flooded cars are also a possibility.
With a once-in-a-century storm like Hurricane Hilary hitting the area, one has to wonder if Disneyland Resort should have opened at all. Those living in Southern California are receiving flash flood warnings, telling them to only go out if absolutely necessary. Those who have traveled and are staying at a Disney Resort hotel or a Good Neighbor Hotel near Disneyland should probably just stay safe and stay indoors.
