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Universal and Disney Defy Shelter-in-Place Order, Put Guests and Staff at Risk

universal globe (left) and disney cinderella castle (right)
Credit: Disney Dining

Both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort have sadly made it impossible for their staff to make it home before the 2:00 p.m. Central Florida lockdown recommendation based on their 2:00 p.m. closure times.

A satellite image reveals Hurricane Milton, showcasing a swirling storm system with a distinct red and black eye at the center, encircled by vibrant bands of yellow, green, and blue.

Credit: National Hurricane Center

Disney and Universal’s Early Closures

Walt Disney World has announced that its parks will begin phased closures due to the imminent threat of Hurricane Milton.

The closures, starting on October 9, will see Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom shutting down at 1 p.m., followed by the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs at 2 p.m. Universal Orlando has indicated that its operations will continue until 2 p.m. on the same day, subject to weather conditions.

Weather alert notice from Universal Orlando Resort: Due to Hurricane Milton, closures are in effect on October 9 and 10, canceling Halloween Horror Nights. Full reopening is anticipated on October 11. Look for the Universal logo at the bottom for more information.

Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

In addition to the closures, various special events have been canceled. The popular Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, scheduled for October 9, has been called off, and guests will receive refunds for their tickets.

Universal will remain closed on October 10, but Disney has not officially announced that closure yet, leaving cast members in a state of limbo.

Disney has also closed some of its more rustic accommodations, including Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, as well as the Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, in anticipation of the storm.

Hurricane Milton’s Current Status

Cinderella Castle in front of a stormy sky

Credit: Disney Dining

As of now, Hurricane Milton is classified as a Category 5 storm.

The storm has seen fluctuations in strength; however, the National Hurricane Center has warned that Milton remains extremely dangerous. The hurricane is expected to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area on October 9, prompting wide-ranging emergency declarations and evacuation orders across various regions.

In preparation for the storm, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for multiple counties, including the locations of Disney and Universal.

Evacuations have been mandated in several inland regions as well, highlighting the storm’s potential impact on local communities.

Public Reaction to Lockdown Advisory

Reactions from guests and employees to the closures and operational plans have been mixed.

Many expressed concern over the safety of both park visitors and employees, particularly given the timing of the closures. Critics argue that the decision for Disney and Universal to continue operations until 2 p.m. undermines the urgency of safety recommendations to seek shelter by that time.

Meteorologist Eric Burris shared that Central Florida residents and tourists must be locked in by 2:00 p.m.

“Hurricane Milton is getting stronger again- Come walk and talk with me-“

As Universal and Disney set their final closure times for 2:00 p.m., the exact hour when all residents are advised to be in their shelters, it places both cast members and team members in a precarious position. Staff will need to wait until the last guest departs, leaving them scrambling to close down the park and travel home, racing against the intensifying storm.

This timing could lead guests to linger, mistaking the 2:00 p.m. closure as a sign it’s safe to remain outside. Rather than heading back to their hotels well before then, some may feel encouraged to stretch out their day—unaware that by the time the last ride is done, the roads could already be hazardous. With wind picking up and warnings in full swing, the added delay could push employees and guests alike dangerously close to the final moments before shelter is necessary.

Social media commentary reflects a backlash, with users questioning the priorities of the companies. The decision to remain open until shortly before the storm’s expected peak has drawn comparisons to the closures of other attractions that opted for more cautious approaches, such as SeaWorld Orlando, which closed entirely.

You can read all of the backlash and concern from fans here. 

Safety Considerations and Preparations

A bustling crowd of people walk down a wide street towards a majestic castle with pointed towers in the background. The street is lined with colorful buildings on both sides, and clusters of trees provide some greenery. Balloons float among the crowd.

Credit: s.yume, Flickr

The importance of timely evacuations and safety measures cannot be overstated, particularly in areas predicted to be severely affected by Hurricane Milton. Long-standing protocols recommend that individuals and families should prepare early and secure immediate shelter as storms approach.

The closures of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando affect not only visitors but also local businesses and the travel industry. The implications of these closures extend be across local economies as tourists adjust their plans. Historically, Disney World has only closed its doors a handful of times in its 53-year history, most of which were due to hurricanes. The decisions made in light of Hurricane Milton are shaping expectations and operational protocols for the future, raising questions about the balance of business considerations and employee safety amidst natural disasters.

Do you think that Disney and Universal made the right choice?

About Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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