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Urgent: Disney World Faces Threat as Hurricane Milton Intensifies

Hurricane Milton has taken another turn, rapidly escalating from Category 4 to an alarming Category 5 as it approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast. Current wind speeds are reported at 160 mph, posing an immediate threat to life and property. Before the storm category was updated, authorities placed Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort under a Hurricane Watch.

The National Hurricane Center warned that hurricane-force winds could impact Orange and Osceola Counties within the next 48 hours. The National Weather Service has confirmed that dangerous conditions are expected on the afternoon of October 9.

State of Emergency Declared by Officials

Ron DeSantis speaking
Credit: Gage Skidmore, Flickr

In response to Hurricane Milton, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across 51 counties. This declaration includes tourist destinations such as Orange County, home to Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, and Polk County, home to LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Those in vulnerable areas have been advised to have a plan in place, particularly if they reside in flood-prone zones or in structures deemed incapable of withstanding high winds.

Response from Disney and Universal Parks

A large crowd of people wearing rain ponchos and holding umbrellas gather on a wet pavement. Some are sitting while others stand near strollers. Trees and buildings are in the background, indicating an outdoor setting on a rainy day.
Creidt: Truman Burbank, Flickr

Despite the looming threat of Hurricane Milton, both Disney and Universal parks have publicly communicated that they will remain open during the storm. However, guests can cancel or reschedule their vacations without any fees.

Walt Disney World Resort has also frozen Disney Park Pass reservations for the storm’s impact date, October 9. The Central Florida Disney Resort and Universal Orlando Resort paused hotel reservations amid an onslaught of evacuation arrivals.

Guests should follow social media or their theme park destination’s website for real-time updates on Hurricane Milton preparedness. Track the storm here.

Potential Consequences of Hurricane Milton

Weather map showing the projected path of Hurricane Milton along the Gulf Coast over several days, the path includes Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida
Credit: National Hurricane Center

Hurricane Milton’s landfall is anticipated in Tampa as a powerful Category 5 storm. Historical patterns suggest that hurricanes tend to lose strength when moving inland. However, areas like Orange and Osceola counties still face the possibility of experiencing Category 1 or 2 winds (up to 110 mph).

The intensity and trajectory of Hurricane Milton are reminiscent of recent hurricanes that have battered Florida, including Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc in the Southeast just days ago.

Is it worth visiting Walt Disney World Resort during a hurricane? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments. 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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