Tropical Storm Idalia is heading for Florida, and Disney World is taking precautions. The state of Florida has entered hurricane season, and the first tropical storm, Idalia, is underway. Hurricane season begins on June 1 and can run through to November 30. That said, hurricanes typically have had the most activity from August to October.
All news channels are reporting on the storm as it nears. According to CNN, Idalia is to “bring life-threatening and potentially catastrophic storm surge, winds and flooding rainfall to Florida’s Gulf Coast starting Tuesday into Wednesday.” Additionally, Governor Ron DeSantis has urged residents to comply with evacuation and seek safety during the next few days.
Although Walt Disney World sits in the center of the state, in Orlando, Florida, a storm of this capacity can still cause negative effects. As we just saw last week, tropical storm Hilary barreled towards Southern California. Disneyland Resort took extra precautions and closed early to ensure the safety of Cast Members and Guests. Now, Walt Disney World is keeping an eye on tropical storm Idalia in the event they need to do the same.
NEW: A Hurricane Watch has been issued for the west coast of Florida from Tampa to the Panhandle. #Idalia pic.twitter.com/5G8zOmQBxM
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) August 27, 2023
Walt Disney World Takes Precaution
Last updated on August 28, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., Disney World released a statement to all Guests and Cast Members. The statement reads,
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.
As the storm continues, those Guests planning to visit Disney World this week can check back on Disney’s website for updates. Furthermore, Gotta Go Orlando added, “The Resort has also reassured concerned guests that they can reschedule their upcoming trip or cancel their stay with all customary cancellation fees to be waived.”Â