National Hurricane Center Monitoring Potential Tropical Storm That Could Impact Florida

By Robin Burks 1 Comment

It’s that time of the year when we have to keep an eye on hurricanes forming in the Atlantic Ocean. That’s because hurricanes can and have, in fact, impacted Disney World in the past.

Magic Kingdom during Hurricane Idalia

Yes, the 2024 hurricane season is here, and it’s expected to be a very busy “potentially explosive” one. We’ve already seen a Cat 5 hurricane, Hurricane Beryl, in the U.S., that seriously impacted Texas. We’re keeping an eye out for storms that could impact Disney World, and we now have an update about a storm system that could affect Florida.

According to the National Hurricane Center, meteorologists are watching for a potential tropical depression that will form near the Leeward Islands, Greater Antilles, or southwestern Atlantic area. This storm would put most of Florida directly in its path.

©National Hurricane Center

The NHC is monitoring the storm, which is currently “an area of disturbed weather” that is expected to interact with an approaching tropical wave. This disturbance has a 40% chance of forming into a tropical depression over the next seven days. Of course, there is a chance that no storm forms, but 40% is a high enough percentage to cause some concern.

If the storm does develop into something stronger, and you have plans to be in Disney World, you could not only run into some seriously rainy weather during your visit (which could close down some rides and entertainment), but you could also see the parks briefly closed until the storm passes. In this case, Disney will likely suggest you stay at your hotel, but don’t worry — Cast Members are prepared to make sure you stay fed and entertained in the event that happens.

Cast Member helping with indoor recreational activities during hurricane in Disney World @aarti1021

Granted, if you know a hurricane is headed to Disney World before you leave for your trip, you may be able to cancel and reschedule it for later. You’ll need to contact Disney World, though, for your options. Disney generally relaxes its cancellation policy in the event of a hurricane, so you might have some leeway if that’s what you decide to do.

Magic Kingdom during Hurricane Idalia 2023

We’ll continue to keep an eye out for more news about this potential storm system, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

How to Handle the Worst-Case Scenario During Hurricane Season at Disney World

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