As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, Walt Disney World has taken significant steps to ensure the safety of its guests and staff. This Category 4 storm is expected to make landfall on Thursday, October 10, 2024, and has already prompted Disney to close its parks and cancel major events across the resort. The closures will remain in effect until the storm passes, and additional safety measures have been implemented across the resort.
Disney World Closures and Hurricane Preparedness
On Wednesday, October 9, Disney initiated a phased shutdown across its theme parks. Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom were the first to close at 1 p.m., followed by Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Springs, which shuttered by 2 p.m. Additionally, the popular Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party scheduled for October 10 has been canceled, with full refunds being issued for affected guests. Disney has also extended the expiration dates of partially used multi-day tickets to October 2025​(
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Many resort properties, including Fort Wilderness Resort and the Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs, are closed until further notice. Dining reservations and experiences are being refunded automatically, and guests with upcoming hotel stays have had cancellation fees waived​(
Safety Measures and Guest Support
In response to the incoming storm, Walt Disney World is prioritizing guest safety. All transportation services were halted on October 9, with Minnie Van and Mears Taxi Service remaining on standby for emergency support. Orlando International Airport has also ceased operations, further impacting travel plans for both incoming and outgoing guests.
Guests currently on-site are being advised to remain indoors, particularly as a Tornado Watch has been issued for the region. Disney’s comprehensive safety protocols, including storm preparation for attractions and park areas, ensure that guests and staff are sheltered safely​(
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Impacts Beyond Disney: Orlando’s Theme Parks Respond
Disney World is not alone in bracing for Hurricane Milton. Other Orlando theme parks, such as Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, have also announced closures. Universal’s Islands of Adventure, CityWalk, and other attractions shut down on October 9, and will remain closed through October 10. SeaWorld Orlando, along with its water parks Aquatica and Discovery Cove, are also closed until further notice​(
What’s Next for Disney Guests?
Disney will continue to monitor Hurricane Milton’s progress closely, offering real-time updates via its website and official channels. Currently, there is no confirmed reopening date for the parks, but it is expected that they will remain closed through at least October 11, pending the storm’s aftermath.
For guests who are uncertain about their upcoming travel plans, Disney has extended flexible rebooking and cancellation policies. Hotel guests can adjust their reservations without incurring fees, and dining and entertainment experiences scheduled for October 9-11 will be refunded automatically​(
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Internal and External Resources:
For more detailed updates about Disney World’s hurricane policy and safety information, check out Newsify, where you’ll find timely articles and resources to help plan your next Disney adventure. Additionally, you can visit Disney World’s official weather updates page for direct information from the park.
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