What to Do If a Hurricane Hits Disney World: Tips for Changing Plans, Safety During Storms, and How Disney Prepares Guests
Graphic of Hurricane Ian in 2022
In 2022, we left Disney on September 26 after a magical week, unaware that just two days later, a Category 4 hurricane, Ian, would hit, causing the parks to close for two full days. One of my most beloved Well Hello Magic family members, Martina, was at the parks that week and captured everything as Disney prepared for the powerful storm. Disney has closed its parks fewer than a dozen times due to hurricanes, so closures for two days was an extremely rare event, highlighting just how serious the situation was.
Hurricane season at Walt Disney World runs from June through November, with the peak months being August through October. While Florida can experience strong storms during this time, Disney World is well-prepared for hurricanes. The resort is located inland, which reduces the intensity of the storms compared to coastal areas. Disney’s buildings are designed to withstand severe weather, and they have safety protocols in place to protect guests and staff. Despite the potential for storms, many guests still enjoy their trips during hurricane season, as the parks remain operational unless a major weather event is imminent. Disney’s flexibility with cancellations and modifications during this period also provides peace of mind.
Planning a trip to Disney is exciting, but if a hurricane is on the horizon, it can quickly become stressful. With the unpredictable nature of weather, especially during hurricane season in Florida, knowing what steps to take before you leave and while you're at Disney can help keep the magic alive—even during a storm.
If You Haven't Left for Disney Yet:
Monitor the Forecast Closely
As soon as you hear that a storm is brewing, stay updated with reliable weather sources. Hurricanes can change direction, intensify, or weaken, so while it's crucial to be prepared, it's also important not to panic early. One of my favorite instagram pages is @Mikesweatherpage . He focuses on tropical storms and hurricanes, which typically pass Disney every year, so he always includes when he thinks it will hit the Disney parks and includes radar pictures to help identify the path of the storm.
Check Airline Policies
Most airlines have flexible policies when it comes to severe weather. If you're flying, check with your airline about their cancellation and rescheduling options. Many airlines waive change fees during natural disasters, allowing you to rebook without penalty. Keep an eye on your flight status, as flights may be canceled or delayed in the days leading up to the storm.
Modify or Cancel Your Disney Reservations
When the park in closed in anticipation of a Hurriane
Disney is very understanding during weather-related emergencies. If you're within the path of the storm and want to change or cancel your hotel reservation, Disney allows you to modify your stay without penalty in most cases. You can reschedule for a later date or cancel your reservation entirely. Remember the weather has to directly impact you for this to happen, and remember always be kind to cast members, they will go the extra mile for you if you handle them with kindness.
Be sure to check Disney's website for important updates. During Hurricane Ian, Disney stopped accepting new hotel guests after 3 PM the day before landfall to ensure everyone’s safety. If you're unsure about any procedures or need guidance, you can always call Disney’s reservation line. The staff will provide clear instructions and walk you through everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared.
If you used a travel agent to book your trip, they can handle all of these changes for you. Having a knowledgeable agent on your side can make the process much smoother, as they are familiar with Disney's policies and have direct contacts to expedite changes.
Dining Reservations
Disney will often waive cancellation fees for dining reservations during extreme weather conditions. If you feel unsure about heading to Disney in the coming days, consider canceling any dining reservations to avoid any penalties that may apply. It’s better to be cautious and avoid unnecessary fees. Be sure to call Disney Dining if you prepared for reservations like Cinderella’s Royal Table and Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue.
After-Hours Party Tickets
If you have tickets for a party or after-hours event like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Disney typically handles these on a case-by-case basis. If the event is canceled due to a hurricane, Disney will offer refunds or allow you to reschedule for another date if availability allows.
If your event is not canceled but you're unable to attend due to travel issues, it's still worth contacting Disney Guest Services or your travel agent to inquire about possible accommodations.
If You're at Disney and a Hurricane is About to Hit:
Safety First: How Safe is Disney During a Hurricane?
Walt Disney World is actually one of the safest places to be during a hurricane. Disney has well-established protocols to ensure guest safety and has weathered many storms over the years with minimal impact on visitors.
Disney’s Hurricane Protocol
Once a hurricane is confirmed to impact the area, Disney takes a number of steps to ensure guest safety. In the 24 hours leading up to a hurricane and during the storm itself, Disney takes proactive steps to keep guests informed by sending regular text alerts. These updates include essential information on park closures, resort services, dining options, and safety procedures. Whether you’re in the parks or at your resort, these alerts ensure you have the latest information, helping you adjust your plans and stay safe. Disney’s attention to communication helps guests feel secure and prepared, even in unpredictable weather.
Park Closures at Disney During a Hurricane:
Parks will close when a hurricane is imminent, usually the night before. Disney communicates these closures well in advance through the My Disney Experience app and direct notifications to guests staying on property. The date will be grayed out but disney will also communicate through their Weather Updates & Information page.
Hotel Protocol at Disney During a Hurricane:
Disney Housekeeping leaves linens, tissue boxes and supplies for the hurricane.
Patience is essential when navigating a trip to Disney World during a hurricane. In 2022, as seen in the video I have here, guests staying at the All-Star Resorts experienced long lines wrapped around the lobby as they waited to update their accommodation status. With hundreds of guests seeking assistance at once, the process can be slow, and the staff works tirelessly to accommodate everyone. It took about 30 minutes for each family to update their information. I'm not sure if you had the option to do this in the app or by calling the Disney reservation line, but I would suggest trying both options in case it becomes available in the future. Staying calm, patient, and understanding that Cast Members are doing their best to help ensure everyone's safety and comfort can make a challenging situation much smoother.
Provisions inside the bag left by housekeeping.
In preparation for the hurricane, housekeeping will proactively deliver extra towels, sheets, and blankets to your door, ensuring that you have ample provisions for the next couple of days. I think this is a thoughtful gesture that helps guests feel more comfortable and prepared during their stay as they ride out the storm. With these additional supplies on hand, guests can focus on staying safe and enjoying the unique experiences that Disney offers, even during challenging weather conditions.
During a hurricane, Disney often provides flexible options for guests staying at their resorts. If a storm impacts your travel plans and you cannot depart as scheduled, Disney may offer discounted rates to extend your stay based on room availability. These offers allow guests to remain safely on property while travel conditions improve. The extended stay discounts vary and are typically valid for a specific time frame, ensuring that guests have an affordable and secure option during the storm. Disney's goal is to keep guests comfortable, informed, and safe until they can continue their vacation or head home.
Disney resorts, especially those with exterior-facing “motel-style” doors like at Value Resorts (All-Star Resorts and Pop Century), are designed to withstand severe weather. Guests may be moved to indoor, more secure locations if necessary. Resorts with interior hallways, like Deluxe Resorts, typically do not require any relocations.
Last thing to keep in mind during hurricanes, sometimes Disney has been known to temporarily suspend its strict no-pets policy, allowing guests to bring their furry companions into select resort hotels for safety since so many people evacuate to the Disney Parks. As storms approach, Disney prioritizes the well-being of both guests and their animals, providing designated pet-friendly accommodations.
Food Provisions at Disney During a Hurricane:
Food Boxes at Disney World during a hurricane
Disney ensures that all guests are taken care of with boxed meals and supplies when parks are closed, and restaurants may be operating on limited schedules. During a hurricane, Disney takes care of its guests by providing convenient box lunches at a lower cost, in 2022 it was only $7 per box meal and that is a pretty good deal especially for Disney, typically available for pickup in the lobby of the Disney resorts. These options may be limited due to the storm but if you have dietary restrictions always speak to a cast member if you cannot find something you are able to eat. Each box lunch usually includes a variety of items, such as sandwiches, fresh fruit, snacks, and bottled water, catering to different dietary preferences.
Meal Kit Menu Options in 2022
Disney updates their website with a list of food locations that may be closed the day after the storm. These closures typically only occur in the case of powerful hurricanes, like Hurricane Ian in 2022, which was classified as a Category 4 storm. While many locations reopen quickly, Disney keeps guests updated on dining availability to make meal planning easier. You can also check in-room TVs for updates on available food options, which is especially helpful when staying indoors is safest. This comprehensive approach ensures guests remain informed and comfortable while waiting for normal operations to resume.
As the hurricane warnings intensified, the dining hall quickly filled with people tying to get a final meal before the storm hit. Tables were crowded, lines stretched long. You will need to keep your patience. My hope is you follow my planning advice about having groceries delivered to your room before your Disney vacation, you should already be in a great position. Having non-perishable snacks, water, and basic supplies means you can comfortably ride out the storm without the stress of scrambling for last-minute items. If you so not have any of these items stocking up on snacks and supplies before a hurricane will help you feel more secure so as soon as you know a storm system is coming you may have to spend a little more at the resort store and be stocked up as local grocery stores will start to sell out of items.
Staying Comfortable During the Storm
While you’re in your room for an extended period, there are several things you can do to prepare.
Stock Up:
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, consider buying some snacks, bottled water, and other essentials from the hotel gift shop or nearby convenience stores before the storm arrives. This will ensure you have enough sustenance in case food service is limited.
Entertainment:
During a hurricane, Disney ensures that the magic doesn’t stop by going above and beyond to keep guests entertained and comfortable. As long as it is safe, Disney brings a variety of activities directly to resort lobbies, transforming them into fun-filled spaces. Guests can enjoy arts and crafts, character meet-and-greets with multiple beloved Disney characters, and even dance parties. To keep things organized, Disney provides a detailed recreation activities schedule, ensuring there's always something for guests of all ages to enjoy while staying indoors. These offerings provide a much-needed escape from the weather, making even stormy days feel magical.
Activity Schedule During Hurricane Ian
Beyond lobby activities, Disney resorts also offer in-room entertainment like movies, games, and other distractions to help guests pass the time during the storm. Disney resorts do their best to keep the pools open for as long as it's safe. As long as there's only light rain and no lightning in the area, guests can still enjoy swimming and poolside activities. Disney monitors the weather closely and will temporarily close the pools if conditions worsen, but they aim to provide as much recreational time as possible before the storm hit and after in case the parks are still closed. Despite the circumstances, Disney's attention to guest experience helps turn a challenging situation into a fun and memorable part of the vacation.
Charging Devices:
Be sure to charge all of your devices before the storm hits. Power outages are rare, but it’s better to be prepared. Portable chargers and power banks are great to have on hand to keep phones and tablets going for the duration of the storm.
Stay Informed:
Keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for updates about park reopenings, dining options, and more. Disney will provide clear instructions on when it’s safe to venture out again, and they’ll often offer additional park time to guests once operations resume.
Shelter in Place:
Text Messages Sent via Disney World during a hurricane
Depending on the severity of the storm, there may come a time when Disney asks guests to shelter in place, advising against roaming the resort. At this point, it’s essential to stay inside your guest room, particularly in resorts with exterior doors or rooms that do not connect directly to the lobby. This precaution helps ensure your safety during the height of the storm, allowing Disney to focus on keeping all guests secure until conditions improve. Staying in your room not only keeps you safe but also allows you to receive real-time updates and information from Disney staff.
By 9 pm - Disney sent a follow up to stay indoors.
Resort Community Support
During hurricanes, Disney resorts are known for going above and beyond to make guests feel safe and entertained. Cast Members will keep guests informed.
After the Storm
After the hurricane passes, Disney springs into action with dedicated cleanup crews that work tirelessly to restore the parks and resorts to their pristine condition. Following Hurricane Ian, the second-day closure was necessary due to the enormous amount of debris scattered throughout the properties, including fallen branches, leaves, and other storm remnants. Disney’s teams swiftly assess the situation, clearing pathways, repairing any damage, and ensuring that all areas are safe for guests. Their prompt response not only reflects Disney's commitment to guest safety but also helps restore the magic as quickly as possible, allowing everyone to get back to enjoying their vacation.
Once Walt Disney World parks open after the hurricane there are typically experience significantly lower crowds, especially in the morning. With many guests focused on rescheduling flights or recovering from the storm, those who are still on property can take advantage of a rare opportunity to explore the parks with minimal wait times. The atmosphere is often more relaxed as Disney swiftly works to reopen and clean up any debris. It's a great time to enjoy popular attractions that usually have long lines and soak in the unique, post-storm serenity of the parks. Still bring a poncho since the outer bands of the storm still may cause rain!
For those needing to get home it’s important to consider potential delays. Flight cancellations can pile up, leading to trouble getting home as airports work to clear backlogs. To avoid added stress, consider extending your stay by a day or two at your Disney resort or at a hotel near your departure airport. This can give you some breathing room and flexibility as air travel normalizes post-storm, making your return home smoother and less rushed.
While hurricanes can be a stressful time for anyone planning or experiencing a Disney trip, knowing what to expect can provide peace of mind. From flexible policies on flights and reservations to Disney’s incredible preparedness for on-site guests, you can rest assured that your safety and enjoyment are top priorities. By staying informed, adjusting plans as necessary, and trusting in Disney’s procedures, you can still make magical memories—even in the middle of a storm.
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Thank you for visiting the Well Hello Magic Blog. If you have questions, please leave them in the comments, and I will be sure to answer them.
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I am so happy to be on this journey with you.
