by The Orlando Bubble Sept 25, 2024
Are you concerned about planning a trip to Disney World during hurricane season? It’s a valid worry, especially considering that hurricanes have led to park closures in the past. In this article, we’ll go over what you need to know if you’re planning to visit Disney World between June 1st and November 30th, the official hurricane season, and how to handle the worst-case scenario if a hurricane impacts your vacation.
Understanding Hurricane Season at Disney World
Hurricane season in Florida lasts from June 1st to November 30th, with the potential for storms before or after these dates. While it’s uncommon for hurricanes to directly impact Disney World, it has happened. A few notable instances include Hurricane Irma in 2017 and Hurricane Ian in 2022, both of which caused the parks to close temporarily. Given this, it’s important to be prepared.
Stay at Hurricane-Ready Hotels
If you’re visiting Disney World during hurricane season, your choice of accommodations matters. Some resorts are better equipped to handle storms than others. Avoid booking outdoor accommodations, like the campsites at Fort Wilderness, and instead opt for resorts with enclosed spaces and easy access to food and shopping. Resorts like Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offer indoor walkways that connect to key amenities, which can be useful if severe weather strikes. In contrast, more spread-out resorts like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort or the All-Star Resorts may require outdoor commuting, which could be less convenient in heavy rain or wind.
Preparing for the Worst
Even though Disney World does its best to continue operations during bad weather, hurricanes can still force the parks to close. If this happens, you’ll likely be spending more time in your hotel than you planned. To make the best of the situation, prepare ahead of time by downloading movies, games, or streaming apps on your devices. Bringing a deck of cards or some travel-sized board games can also help pass the time.
Hotels at Disney World usually provide pre-packaged meals or “Hurricane Meal Kits” when severe weather is expected, but it’s always a good idea to have extra snacks on hand. Keep your electronics charged, and remember that while the parks are closed, hotel staff will still be working to keep guests comfortable and safe.
Trip Insurance and Cancellation Policies
Travel insurance is a good idea when booking a trip during hurricane season. Some credit cards offer trip insurance as a perk, so check with your provider before purchasing separate coverage. Disney World also offers a flexible cancellation policy in the event of a hurricane warning. If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center within seven days of your arrival, Disney allows guests to cancel or reschedule their trips without incurring fees.
Disney’s official policy states: “If a hurricane warning is issued for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within 7 days of your scheduled arrival date, you may reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company package or room-only reservations without any cancellation or change fees.”
What Happens During a Hurricane?
If a hurricane impacts Disney World during your visit, the parks will likely close, and you’ll be instructed to stay at your hotel. Disney Cast Members are well-trained for these situations, and hotels often provide special activities, character visits, and games to keep guests entertained. You can expect indoor movies, games, and other recreational activities to help pass the time.
Hotels typically offer communication updates and keep guests informed about weather conditions and safety protocols. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by Cast Members and local authorities.
Be Prepared
Although visiting Disney World during hurricane season comes with a bit more risk, being prepared can ensure your trip is still enjoyable, even in a worst-case scenario. Make sure to have a plan in place, choose your hotel wisely, and bring extra entertainment and snacks for downtime. Most importantly, keep an eye on the weather forecast and stay informed about potential storms.
By following these tips, you can minimize stress and make the most of your Disney World vacation, rain or shine.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more Disney World tips!
Leave a comment