NEWS: Disney Issues Statement Ahead of Hurricane Idalia

By Kayleigh Henniger 1 Comment

There’s one big thing you need to prepare for when visiting Disney World during the summer and early fall — hurricane season.

Storms can hit Disney World often throughout late summer and early fall

Already, Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for the counties within which Disney World is located, and Tropical Storm Idalia is projected to strengthen to become a hurricane as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico. Many Disney World visitors might be wondering what this means for the parks. Well, Disney has officially shared a statement.

As of 3PM on August 28th, Disney had the following listed on the Disney World weather updates website regarding Tropical Storm Idalia, “Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.” (Note that Disney updated its website on August 29th and the statement remains the same.)

UPDATE: Idalia strengthened into a hurricane overnight Monday and analysts are predicting Disney World may be impacted. Per WESH news, “Showers, squalls, and thunderstorms associated with outer rain bands from Idalia may reach central Florida by late this afternoon, with conditions further deteriorating Tuesday afternoon and evening as Idalia accelerates north-northeastward across the eastern Gulf of Mexico.”

©Disney

So, while no closure announcements have been made of any kind, we know that Disney is keeping a close watch on the storm.

Rainy Day in DAK

This statement does NOT indicate that the parks will or will not close in the days ahead as the storm gets closer. As it notes, for now, the parks are operating under normal conditions. We will continue to watch for updates to see what Disney states as the path of the storm becomes clearer.

If you’re concerned about your vacation, you can take a look at Disney World’s cancelation policies here.