Hurricane Helene has intensified, now upgraded from tropical storm status as it churns towards Florida’s Gulf Coast. This follows the issuance of tropical storm watches and warnings for the Orlando area yesterday.
Hurricane Helene Upgraded
Helene, now a Category 1 hurricane, is forecast to make landfall along Florida’s Big Bend area on Thursday. The storm’s predicted track keeps its central core hundreds of miles from the Orlando area. As such, Walt Disney World is expected to experience tropical storm-level impacts, but not hurricane force winds. Keep in mind the predicted path of the storm can and will change over time. Earlier in the week, the storm was projected to move much closer to the Central Florida area.
Walt Disney World’s Response to Helene
Update: The Typhoon Lagoon water park will be closed on Thursday, September 26th.
As of now, Walt Disney World has not announced any operational changes due to Hurricane Helene. The resort issued a statement yesterday saying:
“Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the storm as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.”
Potential Impacts from Hurricane Helene
While the Orlando area is expected to avoid a direct hit, guests should prepare for:
- Increased winds throughout the day on Thursday, potentially leading to flight disruptions
- Heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday
- Possible flooding in low-lying areas
Increased winds and heavy rains can impact attraction operations periodically. Additionally, the risk of tornadoes increases during tropical storms and hurricanes, which can also impact outdoor experiences.
Stay Informed
Visitors planning trips to Walt Disney World in the coming days should:
- Keep an eye on official Disney communication channels
- Monitor local weather reports
- Be prepared for potential last-minute changes
Stay tuned to MainGatePass.com for continued updates. Always refer to local authorities for guidance on storm preparations and evacuations.
