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Hurricane Milton Upgraded: Universal Orlando Makes Decision on Key Elements

A large, rotating globe with "UNIVERSAL" partially visible in gold letters is the central figure in the image. Set against a stormy backdrop with heavy rain and lightning, it evokes the dynamic weather often experienced at Universal Orlando Resort. The scene is framed by a circular platform with railings.
Credit: Universal, Canva

As Hurricane Milton rapidly intensifies to a Category 5 storm, Florida’s theme parks are bracing for significant impacts, with Universal Orlando Resort beginning to make early preparations.

Harry Potter Attraction

Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

With sustained winds that could be up to 175 mph, this powerful hurricane threatens widespread damage to Central Florida, home to many of the world’s most beloved theme parks, including Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World.

The National Hurricane Center has placed much of Central Florida under a hurricane watch, anticipating dangerous conditions within the next 48 hours. While neither Universal Orlando Resort nor Walt Disney World have announced closures, the potential for severe weather means that both parks are on high alert. The storm is projected to hit the Gulf Coast by Wednesday, October 9, bringing life-threatening winds, torrential rain, and possible flooding.

Weather map showing the projected path of Hurricane Milton along the Gulf Coast over several days.

Credit: National Hurricane Center

For Universal Orlando, one of the biggest concerns is how Hurricane Milton will impact its popular Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) event. As one of the resort’s most celebrated seasonal events, Halloween Horror Nights 2024 kicked off in August and has drawn huge crowds eager to experience haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment. The event, which runs from Wednesday through Sunday, is especially busy in October as the Halloween season ramps up.

This year’s event features haunted houses inspired by iconic horror films and franchises such as Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, A Quiet Place, and Insidious: The Further, offering thrilling experiences for both diehard fans and casual visitors. However, Universal has already begun precautionary measures in anticipation of the storm.

The park has removed key decorations like the large Halloween Horror Nights medallion from the entrance archway and disassembled temporary queue setups for haunted houses.

Four people are experiencing a haunted house attraction at Universal Studios. Three of them appear frightened, with one woman screaming and clutching another's arm. A performer in costume and makeup, meant to look scary, leaps out from a hidden doorway, adding to the fright in this guest dress-coded experience.

Credit: Universal Studios

Although Universal has not officially canceled Halloween Horror Nights for October 9, many fans believe that the storm could disrupt the event. Historically, Universal has closed during severe weather, although these closures are usually brief, lasting a day or two before operations resume. However, with Hurricane Milton’s unprecedented strength, there is growing speculation that the storm may lead to more significant disruptions.

Universal fans are anxiously awaiting updates, and the resort is expected to make a decision soon regarding the future of Halloween Horror Nights this week. While the parks remain open and regular operations continue, the situation is fluid, and further announcements may come as the storm progresses.

Should Hurricane Milton continue on its current path, Universal may have no choice but to cancel or postpone the event, causing disappointment for attendees and a financial blow to the park.

A group of people walk towards a large, elaborate castle with tall spires and intricate architectural details. Set against a partly cloudy sky and surrounded by greenery and rock formations, the scene evokes a universal sense of wonder and adventure.

Credit: Universal

Ultimately, guest and staff safety is the top priority for Universal Orlando. If the storm weakens or shifts course, Halloween Horror Nights may proceed as planned, but for now, all eyes are on Hurricane Milton’s trajectory. The next few days will be crucial in determining the fate of one of the country’s most popular Halloween events.

Stay tuned for updates from Universal Orlando, and be sure to monitor local authorities’ advice if you’re in the area. With Hurricane Milton nearing, the storm’s potential impacts remain uncertain, but preparations are already underway to ensure the safety of visitors and staff alike.

About Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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