Parks

Risk Assessment: Disney World Ensures the Safety of Nearly 250,000 by Shutting Down Operations

As Hurricane Milton approaches Central Florida, Walt Disney World has taken significant measures to ensure the safety of its guests and staff.

Ron DeSantis at a podium is shown in a circular inset over a black and white image of the Disney World castle. The person gestures with a partially closed hand, wearing a blue shirt.
Credit: Disney Dining

Related: Disney Introduces Enhanced Security Measures: New Entry Policies To Affect Millions of Guests

Walt Disney World and its Response to Hurricane Milton

The resort has announced early closures for its parks, with a keen focus on preventative safety measures. The decision to close the parks reflects the company’s commitment to safeguarding all individuals present on its property.

To facilitate effective management during this emergency, Disney’s Emergency Operations Center has maintained ongoing communication with weather experts and local authorities. By acting swiftly, the resort aims to provide ample time for guests and staff to return to their accommodations before the storm’s more severe winds hit the region.

NEW: Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs will close early on Wednesday. Animal Kingdom and DHS will close at 1pm. Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will close at 2pm. Theme parks likely to remain closed on Thursday. MNSSHP on Thursday is canceled.

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The emphasis remains on the safety of everyone involved.

Cinderella Castle in front of a stormy sky
Credit: Disney Dining

Related: Impending Calamity Halts Over 100 Flights: Disney World Guests Given Evacuation Order

Detailed Schedule of Closures

The closures at Walt Disney World will be implemented in phases, beginning on October 9. Specific times have been outlined for each park’s shutdown:
1 p.m.: Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will close.

  • 2 p.m.: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs will follow suit.

As a result of these closures, special events, including the popular Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party scheduled for October 10, have been canceled. This cancellation means that guests who had purchased tickets will receive automatic refunds. It is anticipated that theme parks will remain closed on Thursday, October 10, with Disney Springs possibly reopening in a limited capacity later that day.

Transportation Adjustments During the Storm at Disney World

In conjunction with the park closures, Walt Disney World will halt its transportation services shortly after the parks and Disney Springs close on October 9. This suspension includes bus, monorail, and boat services.

For guests requiring transportation, limited options such as Minnie Van and Mears taxi services will remain available. However, the overall impact on guest mobility is expected to be significant as the regular transportation network will not operate during this period. Therefore, guests intending to travel within the property should plan accordingly.

A large archway sign over a roadway reads "Walt Disney World - The Most Magical Place On Earth."
Credit: Inside the Magic

Related: BREAKING: Universal Orlando Announces Hurricane Closure

Dining and Reservation Policy Changes at Disney World

In light of the impending hurricane, Walt Disney World has introduced updated policies regarding dining and reservations. The resort will not be enforcing cancellation fees until further notice, providing some relief to guests who have made prepaid reservations. Automatic refunds will be processed for these reservations within a timeframe of 7 to 10 business days.

Additionally, Disney will allow guests to modify or cancel room-only and vacation packages with no penalties for stays between October 8 and October 14. This flexibility in policies demonstrates Disney’s commitment to accommodating its guests amid challenging circumstances. Guests with reservations for these impacted dates are encouraged to reach out to Disney Central for additional assistance, particularly for reservations that involve third-party services.

The proactive steps taken by Walt Disney World in response to Hurricane Milton illustrate its dedication to guest and employee safety. By closely monitoring the situation and providing clear communication about operational changes, the resort ensures that all individuals are informed and can take necessary precautions. As the storm approaches, guests are advised to remain vigilant and keep up to date with Disney’s official channels for real-time updates.

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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