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Disney World Closes Its Gates as Hurricane Milton Approaches: What Visitors Need to Know

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As the magical kingdom of Disney World prepares to face the wrath of Hurricane Milton, visitors and Disney enthusiasts alike are left wondering about the fate of their dream vacations. In an unprecedented move, the Walt Disney World Resort has announced the closure of its theme parks, water parks, and other attractions as the powerful storm barrels towards Florida. We will provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate this unexpected turn of events, from park closure details to safety tips for those caught in the storm’s path.

Castle with Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse statue

The Approaching Storm: Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton, a formidable Category 5 storm, has been steadily making its way towards Florida’s western coast. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings, predicting that Milton will maintain its status as an extremely dangerous hurricane as it approaches Florida. This looming threat has prompted Disney World to take decisive action to ensure the safety of its guests and cast members.

Disney World’s Response: Park Closures and Schedules

In response to the impending hurricane, Disney World has announced a series of closures across its vast resort complex. Here’s a breakdown of the closure schedule:

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Thursday, October 10, 2024

  • All four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) are expected to remain closed.
  • Disney Springs may reopen in a limited capacity late Thursday afternoon, depending on weather conditions.

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Water Parks and Other Attractions

  • Typhoon Lagoon water park, Winter Summerland Miniature Golf, and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf will be closed on Wednesday, October 9.
  • Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park remains closed for ongoing refurbishment.

Resort Closures

  • Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will close at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9.
  • These resorts are likely to remain closed until Sunday, October 13.

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Reopening Plans

While Disney World has not yet announced official reopening dates, they are closely monitoring the situation and will make decisions based on the storm’s impact and safety considerations. Typically, the parks reopen as soon as it is safe to do so, which could be as early as Friday, October 11, if conditions improve rapidly.

However, guests should be prepared for potential extended closures, especially if Hurricane Milton causes significant damage or flooding. Disney will communicate reopening plans through their official channels, including their website, mobile app, and social media platforms.

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Safety First: Disney’s Hurricane Protocol

Disney World takes guest safety seriously, especially during severe weather events like Hurricane Milton. Here’s what visitors can expect in terms of safety measures and protocols:

Communication and Updates

Disney will send regular text alerts to guests in the 24 hours leading up to the hurricane and during the storm itself. These updates will include essential information on:

  • Park closures
  • Resort services
  • Dining options
  • Safety procedures

It’s crucial for guests to stay informed and follow these updates closely.

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Shelter-in-Place Procedures

If conditions worsen, Disney may advise guests to shelter in place. This means:

  • Staying inside your guest room, especially in resorts with exterior doors
  • Following instructions from Cast Members
  • Remaining in designated safe areas until given the all-clear

Emergency Supplies

Disney is known for providing shelter-in-place instructions and items to guests. These may include:

  • Coffee, creamer, and sweetener
  • Toilet paper
  • Cups and soap
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Large trash bags

Guests are advised to stock up on additional supplies, such as bottled water and non-perishable snacks, if they know a hurricane is approaching.

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Keeping the Magic Alive: Disney’s Hurricane Entertainment

Even in the face of a hurricane, Disney strives to keep guests entertained and comfortable. Here’s how they maintain the magic during severe weather:

Resort Activities

Disney transforms resort lobbies into entertainment hubs, offering:

  • Arts and crafts
  • Character meet-and-greets
  • Dance parties
  • Trivia contests
  • Movie marathons

A detailed recreation activities schedule is provided to ensure guests always have something to do.

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In-Room Entertainment

For those sheltering in their rooms, Disney offers:

  • Movies
  • Games
  • Other distractions to help pass the time

Pool Access

As long as conditions permit, Disney aims to keep resort pools open. However, they will close temporarily if lightning is detected or conditions become unsafe.

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Practical Tips for Guests During Hurricane Milton

If you find yourself at Disney World during Hurricane Milton, here are some essential tips to help you weather the storm:

  1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official Disney channels and local weather reports for the latest updates.
  2. Charge Devices: Ensure all your electronic devices are fully charged, as power outages are possible.
  3. Stock Up: If possible, purchase extra supplies like bottled water, snacks, and any necessary medications.
  4. Have a Meeting Point: Establish a meeting place with your group in case you get separated and phone communication is disrupted.
  5. Listen to Cast Members: Follow all instructions given by Disney staff, as they are trained to handle these situations.
  6. Be Flexible: Understand that plans may change rapidly, and be prepared to adjust your itinerary.
  7. Keep Important Documents Safe: Store passports, tickets, and other crucial documents in a waterproof container.
  8. Dress Appropriately: Have rain gear and comfortable, waterproof shoes on hand.
  9. Stay Positive: Remember, Disney staff will do their best to keep you safe and entertained during this unexpected adventure.

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Disney World Cancellations and Refunds: What You Need to Know

For those whose plans have been disrupted by Hurricane Milton, Disney has policies in place to assist:

  • All prepaid bookable experiences will be automatically refunded within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Cancellation policies are suspended until further notice.
  • If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area or your place of residence within 7 days of your arrival, you can reschedule or cancel your Disney Resort hotel packages and most room-only reservations without any fees.

However, it’s important to note that this policy may not apply to certain special events, dining experiences, or third-party suppliers included in your vacation package.

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The Bigger Picture: Disney World Hurricanes

While Hurricane Milton’s impact on Disney World is significant, it’s not the first time the resort has faced such challenges. Disney World has only closed its doors 10 times in its 53-year history due to weather events and national emergencies. Previous closures include:

  • Hurricane Floyd in September 1999
  • Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne in August 2004
  • Hurricane Matthew in October 2016
  • Hurricane Irma in October 2017
  • Hurricane Ian in September 2022

This historical context demonstrates Disney’s experience in handling such situations and their commitment to guest safety.

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Looking Ahead: Post-Hurricane Operations

Once Hurricane Milton passes, and it’s safe to resume operations, Disney World will work diligently to reopen its parks and resorts. This process may include:

  1. Safety Inspections: Thorough checks of all attractions, buildings, and infrastructure.
  2. Debris Removal: Clearing any fallen trees, branches, or other storm-related debris.
  3. Systems Checks: Ensuring all electrical, water, and other essential systems are functioning properly.
  4. Staff Preparation: Briefing and positioning Cast Members to welcome guests back.
  5. Phased Reopening: Potentially opening certain areas or attractions before others, depending on readiness.

Guests planning to visit in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Milton should stay tuned to Disney’s official communications for the most up-to-date information on park and resort reopenings.

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The Magic Endures

As Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida, Disney World’s decision to close its gates underscores the resort’s commitment to guest and staff safety. While the closure may disappoint many visitors, it’s a necessary precaution in the face of nature’s fury. Disney’s comprehensive hurricane protocols, from park closures to guest entertainment, demonstrate their expertise in handling such situations.

For those affected by the closures, remember that the magic of Disney is not confined to the parks alone. The spirit of adventure, the joy of togetherness, and the thrill of facing challenges can make even this unexpected turn of events a memorable part of your Disney experience.

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As we look forward to the parks reopening, let’s remember that the true magic of Disney lies not just in its attractions, but in its ability to bring people together, create lasting memories, and inspire wonder – even in the face of adversity. When the storm passes and the gates reopen, Disney World will be ready to welcome guests back to a world where dreams come true, and the magic never truly stops.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember – after every storm, there’s a rainbow, and at Disney World, that rainbow might just lead to a castle.

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***Update From Disney on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET.***

Walt Disney World and Vero Beach Resort Hotel Guests: Please prepare to shelter indoors in your room or building beginning at 8:30 PM, as the storm is expected to intensify.

The Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks, recreation offerings and Disney Springs are now closed through Thursday, October 10.

Operational impacts include:

Theme Parks & Disney Springs

All theme parks and Disney Springs—including the parking garages—are currently closed and will remain closed on Thursday, October 10. This includes the cancellation of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (event tickets will be refunded).

For partially used multi-day tickets, ticket expiration dates will be adjusted to expire on October 11, 2025. View more details.

Disney Resort Hotel Closures

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are temporarily closed. They are likely to remain closed until Sunday, October 13.

Disney Resort Hotels – Food and Dining

We continue to operate select dining locations for Guests currently staying in our Disney Resort hotels. Please check the food and dining pages for Disney Resort hotels on this website or via the My Disney Experience app for the latest details. Please be aware that operating hours and availability may be adjusted as necessary without prior notice.

Additionally, we recommend planning ahead and stopping by any food court or quick-service dining location to pre-purchase breakfast and lunch for Thursday, October 10.

Disney Resort Hotels – Activities

The following activities may be available for you to enjoy at your Disney Resort hotel:

  • Free Disney movies in your Resort hotel room
  • Visit the lobby for surprise Character visits and more family fun
  • Check out the arcade for free play starting at 4:00 PM
  • Visit the fitness center during normal operating hours

Operating hours and availability may be adjusted as necessary without prior notice.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Wind & Waves Grill is closed for dinner on Wednesday, October 9, and for breakfast on Thursday, October 10. The Spa at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is closed through Thursday, October 10.

Transportation

  • Walt Disney World Transportation is temporarily unavailable.
  • Minnie Van service is temporarily unavailable.

Recreation

The following locations are closed through Thursday, October 10:

  • Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park
  • Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf
  • Winter Summerland Miniature Golf

Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park remains closed for planned refurbishment.

Reservations for Dining and Other Experiences

Effective immediately, we will not enforce cancellation policies until further notice for dining and other experiences.

Prepaid bookable experiences will be automatically refunded within 7 to 10 business days.