
Disney World guests and Orlando locals alike have just received a notification via the Radar app letting them know Hurricane Milton is now a Category 5 storm.
Hurricane Milton Intensifies to Cat 5
Wind Speeds Reach 160 mph
Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds now at 160 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed this development, highlighting Milton as the most powerful storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. The storm’s strength indicates its potential to cause extensive damage upon landfall, particularly in densely populated areas.
Expected Landfall in Tampa
Currently, forecasts predict that Hurricane Milton will make landfall in the Tampa Bay area. The NHC has issued warnings indicating that significant hurricane-force winds could impact the region, raising concerns regarding the safety of residents and visitors alike.
Storm Surge Threats to Gulf Coast
In addition to strong winds, the hurricane poses a severe storm surge threat to Florida’s Gulf Coast. Officials estimate that surge levels could range between 10 to 15 feet in vulnerable areas, which would exacerbate flooding risks significantly, particularly in coastal communities.
Warnings and Evacuations Issued
Mandatory Evacuations for Certain Areas
In light of the increasing threat from Hurricane Milton, officials have implemented mandatory evacuation orders for specific regions situated within the projected storm path. Areas particularly vulnerable to flooding and storm surge are under immediate precaution.
State of Emergency Declared by Gov. DeSantis
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency that encompasses several counties, including Orlando’s Orange County. This declaration aims to ensure that emergency resources and personnel are readily available in preparation for the hurricane’s impact.
Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency Saturday for 35 of Florida’s 67 counties and then expanded it to 54.
The state of emergency includes the following counties: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie Sumter, Suwanee, Taylor, Union, and Volusia counties.
Impact on Disney and Universal Guests
Over 100,000 Guests Affected
The intensification of Hurricane Milton has directly impacted over 100,000 guests currently visiting Disney World and Universal Orlando. These visitors are now facing uncertain conditions as the hurricane approaches the region.
Additionally, notifications were disseminated to all guests staying at Disney and Universal resorts using the Radar app. The alerts warned of Milton’s impending arrival and provided essential safety information for guests in the area.
Once Hurricane Milton was upgraded to a Category 5 storm moments ago, visitors in the Orlando area—particularly the hundreds of thousands on vacation—likely received a notification if they use the Radar app. The alert reads, “Milton coming Wednesday. Extreme rapid intensification ongoing over Gulf. Heading for Cat 5. Hits as 2 or 3 with devastating surge.”
Receiving such a notification may cause concern for guests, but those staying at a Disney or Universal Resort can rest assured that their safety is a top priority.
In response to Hurricane Helene, Walt Disney World implemented several operational changes to prioritize guest safety. Typhoon Lagoon, the water park, was closed due to the storm, which is standard protocol even during colder weather. Additionally, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party was canceled as a precaution.
Guests with affected reservations were given the chance to change their dates without incurring extra fees, which helped prevent long lines at City Hall for rescheduling.
The mini-golf courses at Disney World also closed during the storm. Universal Orlando Resort took similar precautions, shutting down Volcano Bay and canceling Halloween Horror Nights.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, Disney World is implementing precautionary measures. The company has temporarily suspended new hotel bookings and stopped theme park reservations for October 9th and 10th. Universal Orlando Resort has also halted hotel bookings for those same dates.
Additionally, Disney has waived cancellation fees for hotel reservations during this period, allowing guests to modify or cancel their bookings without penalties.
Disney and Universal Implement Precautions
In response, both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have enacted precautionary measures to ensure guest safety. These include revamping operational protocols and closing certain facilities ahead of the storm, while also providing updates to guests through various channels.
Safety Measures and Preparations
Disney’s Emergency Response Plans
Disney has outlined robust emergency response plans designed to protect guests during severe weather events. This involves pre-staged supplies and trained personnel prepared to manage guest safety effectively. Communication lines remain open to ensure guests are informed of any changes or necessary actions as the situation unfolds.
Modifications to Reservations and Bookings
As part of their preparations, both Disney and Universal have made significant modifications to reservation policies, including the suspension of new bookings during the storm’s approach. Guests impacted by the weather are given the option to modify or cancel reservations without incurring standard fees.
Informational Resources for Guests
Resorts have established informational resources, including dedicated sections on their websites regarding the hurricane’s impact. These resources offer real-time updates, safety tips, and emergency contacts to help navigate the evolving situation and ensure a safe experience for all visitors.
Hurricane Milton’s rapid escalation to Category 5 status signifies a serious threat to Florida’s Gulf Coast and its residents. As the storm approaches, Disney World and other attractions are prepared to prioritize the safety of their guests while the state mobilizes resources to combat potential devastation. As many as 100,000 guests may be affected, and ongoing efforts are in place to manage this unprecedented storm effectively.
Do you think that Disney will close down its theme parks for the hurricane?