Everything you need to know about Hurricane Idalia’s impact on Walt Disney World, including the latest closure updates and information.
With a location in Central Florida, Disney World is no stranger to the hurricane season. In the past, Disney World has had to close the parks due to dangerous weather from hurricanes and tropical storms that saw Orlando in their cone. This week, Hurricane Idalia is expected to impact parts of Florida, which has left many wondering whether Disney World will be impacted. We’re sharing the latest updates from Disney on any closures and cancellation policies you may need to know if you have plans to visit the parks this week.
How Hurricane Idalia is Affecting Disney World: The Latest Updates and Closures
We’re sharing the latest updates from Disney World regarding closures, delays, as well as Hurricane Cancellation Policies. LATEST UPDATE: 8/30 at 8:30 AM.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, Hurricane Idalia is expected to strengthen to a Category 3 hurricane. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has issued a state of emergency in 49 Florida counties, including Osceola and Orange counties, where Disney World is located.
Disney World Operational Status Updates
As of 11:30 AM EST on August 29th, Disney World has currently listed that they will be operating under normal conditions. Their current status update is, “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.”
Two exceptions are Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, as well as Winter Summerland Miniature Golf and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf. These will all be closed on August 30th.
Disney World Hotel Updates
As Disney continues to monitor the weather, they have asked that all guests at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds remove and stow all outside items (including decor), and take in camper awnings by 6 PM EST on August 29th. If you are currently staying at Fort Wilderness and would like to discuss alternative options, you can contact Disney at (407) 939-2744.
Disney World Cancellation and Modification Policy
Currently, Disney is waiving change and cancellation fees for check-in dates of August 28th to September 5th, 2023. They have also shared that guests currently staying at a Disney Resort hotel whose travel plans have been impacted by the storm may be able to receive a discounted rate to extend their stay through the evening of August 31st. Those guests will want to visit the front desk of their hotel to explore options. You can read more about the Hurricane Cancellation Policies here.
Evacuees & First Responders Support
Florida residents evacuating from the storm and first responders assisting in storm-related recovery efforts may receive 50% off Disney Resort hotel stays on the evenings of August 29th through August 31st. Evacuees can call (407) W-DISNEY for details, and first responders can call (407) 828-3200 (Option 3). This only applies to new bookings and will be based on availability.
Miscellaneous Updates
Due to Hurricane Idalia, Disney has shared that the virtual Disney Treasure reveal has been moved to next week. You can now watch it on September 5th at 11 AM EST.
