Two weeks ago, the Florida panhandle dealt with the devastation left by Hurricane Helene, which wiped out entire towns in the Carolinas. Hurricane season begins June 1, but storms do not typically become a problem until September. And this year, the storms forming in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico seem worse than ever.
Now, less than two weeks after being hit by Hurricane Helene, the Sunshine State is bracing for Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm that formed in the Gulf last week and has exploded in intensity in a matter of days.
Related: Disney World Cast Members Grapple With Tough Decisions as Hurricane Milton Approaches
On the morning of October 7, Central Florida was put under a hurricane watch. Hours later, the threat was upgraded to a hurricane warning. Officially classified as a Category 5 hurricane, Milton poses significant threats of damaging winds exceeding 160 mph and severe flooding.
The National Hurricane Center has cautioned that parts of Florida may experience life-threatening conditions, including storm surges that could reach heights of 8 to 12 feet. This surge, combined with torrential rains, creates an extremely hazardous scenario for coastal communities and those situated inland.
Related: Disney World Airport Makes MAJOR Hurricane Announcement, Thousands of Vacations Impacted
While most of the state is shutting down, there are still thousands of people who are vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort, and cast members are doing everything they can to keep those guests safe.
Shortly after the hurricane warning was issued, Disney World Resort guests received the following alert on their phones.
Emergency Alert
National Weather Service: A HURRICANE WARNING is in effect for this area for dangerous and damaging winds. This warning is issued up to 36 hours before hazardous conditions begin. Urgently complete efforts to protect life and property. Have food, water, cash, fuel, and medications for 3+ days. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FROM LOCAL OFFICIALS.
Related: Hurricane Milton Upgraded: Universal Orlando Makes Decision on Key Elements
Walt Disney World and other local theme parks are preparing for Hurricane Milton while prioritizing the safety of their guests and staff. As part of the response, Disney World has updated its reservation policies, waiving change and cancellation fees for guests with hotel reservations between October 6 and October 13. The resort remains operational under “normal conditions,” but park reservations for October 9 and 10 have been suspended due to the storm.
Safety measures have been enhanced, with park management closely monitoring the storm’s trajectory.
Reports indicate that other neighboring attractions, such as Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, have implemented similar precautionary measures.
Local authorities have already issued evacuation orders in certain areas of Central Florida as Hurricane Milton continues to gain strength. A state of emergency has been declared across 51 counties in Florida, allowing for more efficient coordination of emergency services and resources. This decision is primarily aimed at facilitating evacuations and ensuring public safety, especially in low-lying areas and facilities vulnerable to flooding.
Schools around the region have been closed, and transportation services have been adjusted. Airports, including Orlando International Airport, are preparing to suspend commercial operations to prioritize safety. Emergency management officials have been clear in their guidance: residents in affected regions should heed evacuation orders and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions.
If you are in the Walt Disney World Resort area, please listen to local authorities. Prepare early and remain indoors when the storm hits.