Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld are bracing for the impact of Hurricane Milton as the ferocious storm threatens to make a once-in-a-century direct hit on Tampa and St. Petersburg in Florida. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has upgraded Hurricane Milton back to a Category 5 storm, warning of potentially destructive consequences for west-central Florida.
As the storm regained strength, Orlando’s major theme parks and the main airport announced closures in anticipation of Hurricane Milton’s arrival. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld will be closing their theme parks and entertainment facilities on Wednesday, with Universal also cancelling Halloween Horror Nights for the scheduled days. Orlando International Airport, a key transportation hub, will also cease operations on Wednesday morning.
In a rare move, Disney World had initially planned to keep its doors open before eventually deciding to close its campgrounds and rental cabins ahead of the storm. The impending closure of the theme parks and airport has disrupted the plans of thousands of tourists, with many facing the prospect of cutting short their vacations and heading back home.
The Orlando area, known for its popular theme parks, attracts millions of tourists annually, making it one of the most visited destinations in the United States. October is a particularly busy time for theme parks due to Halloween-related events that draw in large crowds and generate significant revenue for the tourism industry.
Despite rarely closing its doors, Disney World has become accustomed to managing disruptions caused by natural disasters and emergencies in recent years. In times of crisis, the resort’s hotels often provide shelter for local residents seeking refuge from the impending storms.
In the aftermath of hurricanes, theme parks like Disney World work swiftly to restore normal operations. Following Hurricane Charley’s impact in 2004, Disney World demonstrated its efficiency by clearing debris and ensuring the safety of its premises within a short period.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, tourists and locals in Florida are preparing for the potential impact of the powerful storm. The resilience and preparedness displayed by Disney World and other attractions in the face of natural disasters highlight the importance of prioritising safety and ensuring the well-being of all visitors and residents in the region.