New information for those staying at Fort WildernessHurricane Idalia is expected to make landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida early tomorrow. There is a Tropical Storm Warning in effect for both Orange and Osceola Counties. So far, the only theme park that will be closed is Busch Gardens Tampa, which is much closer to the storm’s predicted path.
At 11:00 this morning Walt Disney World updated the Weather Updates page on its website. The first part hasn’t changed. It states:
Walt Disney World 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. Learn More.
Some new information was added regarding Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. There are also a couple of other things. The s reads:
- For Guests staying at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: As we continue to monitor the weather, we are asking that all Fort Wilderness Guests remove and stow all outside items, including décor, and take in camper awnings by 6 PM on Tuesday, August 29. If you’d like to depart early or discuss alternate options for your vacation, please contact us at (407) 939-2744.
- Travel Flexibility: At this time, change and cancellation fees imposed by Disney will be waived for check-in dates of August 28, 2023 through September 4, 2023. Guests currently staying at our Disney Resort hotels whose travel plans have been impacted by the storm may receive a discounted rate to extend their stay through the evening of August 31, if needed, by visiting the front desk.
- Evacuees & First Responders Support: Florida residents evacuating from the storm and first responders assisting in storm-related recovery efforts may also receive 50% off Disney Resort hotel stays on the evenings of Aug. 29-31, 2023. For evacuees, please call 407-W-DISNEY for details. For first responders, please call 407-828-3200 (Option 3). This applies to new bookings only and is based on availability.
- Storm Recovery: Walt Disney World is prepared to once again serve as a staging area for storm-related recovery efforts for the state of Florida.
For Guests looking to modify or cancel their Disney Resort hotel reservations, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Plans.
Central Florida is not expected to receive a direct hit from Hurricane Idalia, but that doesn’t mean to let your guard down. We will most likely receive a lot of rain and gusty winds. Since we’re on the dirty side if the storm, there could be tornados. If you’re here, please take Hurricane Idalia or any storm seriously.