Orlando Airports Closing Ahead of Tropical Storm

In the next couple of days, Tropical Storm Nicole is set to hit the East Coast of Florida before making its way through the central part of the state. Nicole started out as a Subtropical Storm — meaning the storm wasn’t as structured, and the winds were further from the eye of the storm — but was upgraded to a Tropical Storm in the early morning of November 8. According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Nicole could increase to a hurricane before it hits the Sunshine State.

Credit: National Hurricane Center

Earlier this morning, Disney announced that it would be closing a number of Resort areas and dining spots, but reversed course and announced that the only closures would be Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Fantasia Miniature Golf, and Winter Summerland Miniature Golf.

While Walt Disney World is staying open for now, those traveling to the Most Magical Place on Earth in the next few days may find themselves unable to fly there. Orlando International Airport announced that it would be closing ahead of the Tropical Storm. MCO shared news of the closure on Twitter, saying:

Operational Update – Tropical Storm Nicole Together with our partners, a decision has been made to cease commercial operations at 4:00pm on Wednesday, November 9th, until circumstances permit operations resume.

Operational Update – Tropical Storm Nicole
Together with our partners, a decision has been made to cease commercial operations at 4:00pm on Wednesday, November 9th, until circumstances permit operations resume.

— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) November 8, 2022

Those who are traveling to Disney World via Sanford International may find their flight plans changed as well. Like Orlando International, Sanford will be closing on November 9 and reopening as soon as it is safe.

The Airport will be closing Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at 4:00PM. For more info on flights, contact your airline. Please do not come to the airport. The airport is not an authorized shelter. If you need assistance call the Seminole County Citizen line (407) 665-0000.

The Airport will be closing Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at 4:00PM.

For more info on flights, contact your airline.

Please do not come to the airport. The airport is not an authorized shelter. If you need assistance call the Seminole County Citizen line
(407) 665-0000. pic.twitter.com/Ma1OKHju22

— Orlando Sanford International Airport (@SFB_Airport) November 8, 2022

At this time, we don’t know how long the airports will remain closed. It will all depend on when Tropical Storm Nicole hits the state and how strong the storm is when it does.

Florida is still recovering from Hurricane Ian, which hit the state in September, and parts of Florida are currently under a hurricane watch.