Orlando’s first theme park closure has been announced.
SeaWorld Orlando Closure Announcement
SeaWorld Orlando has announced a temporary closure in anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s impact. The park will be closed on October 9 and 10, prioritizing the safety of guests, staff, and animals.
The decision reflects a commitment to the well-being of all involved during extreme weather events. SeaWorld has implemented standard safety protocols, ensuring that all personnel are prepared for the impending hurricane.
Communication regarding the closures has been disseminated through the park’s social media platforms, encouraging guests to stay updated.
The SeaWorld account shared a notice stating, “Stay safe, Florida”.
Stay safe, Florida 💙
For more information, please visit https://t.co/XCMBh9RD6V pic.twitter.com/Tg1EgJggas
— SeaWorld (@SeaWorld) October 8, 2024
The post reads, “After reviewing the latest track of Hurricane Milton, and to ensure the safety of our ambassadors, guests, and animals, our Florida parks will be closed Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10. Stay tuned for information regarding our parks’ reopening following the storm on Friday, October 11.”
Impact of Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton is currently classified as a Category 4 storm, having previously reached Category 5 status. It is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, possibly near the Tampa Bay area. Weather forecasts indicate that the storm may expand in size and intensity, leading to potential hazardous conditions in Central Florida.
The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings regarding the storm’s intensity, urging residents to finalize preparations by October 8. As Hurricane Milton approaches, its projected wind speeds of 150 mph continue to pose a severe threat to the region. Residents are reminded to heed evacuation orders if issued by local authorities.
Other Theme Park Closures
Alongside SeaWorld Orlando, other theme parks in Central Florida have announced closures due to Hurricane Milton. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is also closed on October 8, 9, and 10, emphasizing safety for all employees and guests. LEGOLAND Florida has revealed partial operations may be impacted, with some areas closed but others remaining open as conditions evolve.
Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are currently monitoring the situation closely.
Universal Orlando Resort remains open today, but the park is “closely monitoring the weather” conditions. Visitors are encouraged to check the resort’s website for the latest updates and information regarding any changes.
Meanwhile, Walt Disney World is operating as usual through Tuesday while keeping a watchful eye on the approaching storm. The park is “making adjustments based on the latest weather forecast” to ensure guest safety.
Disney has announced that Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, including its dining and recreational areas, along with the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, will temporarily close starting at 11 a.m. on Wednesday. Fort Wilderness and the Treehouse Villas are expected to remain closed until Sunday, October 13, while the Copper Creek Cabins are anticipated to reopen on Friday, October 11. Additionally, theme park reservations will not be available on Wednesday, as indicated on Disney’s online reservation calendar. Disney has also suspended all dining reservations after 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
In past hurricanes, both Disney and Universal have shut down for two days during Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Irma. However, during Hurricane Dorian in September 2019, they operated with reduced hours as the storm passed nearby.
Future of Park Operations
Looking ahead, SeaWorld Orlando anticipates a reopening on October 11, pending the assessment of post-storm conditions. The park’s management is prepared to provide updates as needed and is committed to ensuring the safety of guests returning after the hurricane.
Upcoming events and reservations at SeaWorld Orlando may also be affected by the storm’s aftermath. Historical context has shown that Florida theme parks, including SeaWorld, have had to close during significant hurricanes in the past. With Hurricane Milton posing an imminent threat, it is essential for guests and park management to remain vigilant and flexible in response to rapidly changing conditions.
Hurricane Milton’s impending impact is leading to widespread precautionary measures across theme parks like SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and others in the region. As communities prepare, safe, timely communication will be critical in the days ahead.
Did you expect SeaWorld Orlando to shut down?