Hurricane Milton Threatens to Close Disney World

Less than two weeks after one hurricane, Disney World is preparing for another. Unlike Hurricane Helene, however, Hurricane Milton is threatening to close the parks.

Hurricane Milton

Disney World Begins Closing Operations Due to Hurricane Debby — Credit: Susan

A tropical storm developed into a Category 1 hurricane this weekend, and it is expected to hit the gulf coast of Florida by mid-week.

The most likely path suggests Milton could make landfall Wednesday. It would start in the Tampa Bay Area and work its way across the state to the Atlantic coast.

At this time, Hurricane Milton is traveling slowly, but it is expected to strengthen rapidly. As a result, Disney World is already preparing for some major operational changes and possibly even closure of the parks.

Operational Changes

wildernesslodgestorybookdiningdesserts — Credit: Monica

At this time, Disney World is still operating on a normal basis. However, as the storm is anticipated to hit by mid-week, Disney is quietly preparing.

First, hotel and dining availability is unavailable for Wednesday, October 9.

Second, Disney temporarily changed its cancellation policy. Most room-only and vacation packages can be modified, or cancelled online, including changes to travel dates, without fees. Packages including air transportation or other services provided by third parties, or those with travel protection, cannot be modified or cancelled online.

Due to the potential weather impacts to travel plans, change and cancellation fees imposed by Disney will be waived for check-in dates of Sunday, October 6 – Saturday, October 12.

How to Prepare

Fall in Love with the New Grand Floridian Hotel Rooms — Credit: Kate

If you are braving out the storm, we have some tips to help you be prepared. For travelers headed to Disney World during this time of year, it is important to be prepared and stay aware of weather conditions.

This includes packing extra items like battery chargers, medications, and baby supplies. It may also be wise to turn on all weather alerts and keep a close eye on severe weather patterns right before and during your vacation.

Read more about hurricane season at Disney World here.

Have your travel plans changed this week? Let us know in the comments below, and share this post with a friend or family member who will be visiting Disney World this week.