As Hurricane Helene strengthens and approaches Florida, both Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort are making preparations to ensure the safety of guests and employees. According to the National Hurricane Center’s latest advisory, Hurricane Helene is maintaining maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. However, despite these strong winds, the storm is struggling to fully organize.
Disney and Universal Orlando Announce Closures
In response to the impending storm, Walt Disney World has announced the closure of its Typhoon Lagoon water park on Thursday, September 26, 2024. Additionally, the Beachcomber Shack and Typhoon Lagoon Umbrella rentals will be unavailable. Other activities and experiences set to be canceled include popular tours and attractions such as:
- Savor the Savanna
- Up Close with Rhinos
- Walking with Giants
- Wild Africa Trek
- Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf
- Winter Summerland Miniature Golf
Universal Orlando Resort has also announced that Universal’s Volcano Bay water park will be closed on Thursday, September 26. Officials expect it to reopen on Friday during regular hours, assuming conditions allow.
Update from Universal Orlando Resort.
For more information and FAQs, visit https://t.co/Om4v3XkbTA pic.twitter.com/p3okxxGyA4
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) September 25, 2024
Severe Weather Policies and Guest Safety
Universal Orlando is adhering to its severe weather policy, which allows guests to cancel tickets and hotel reservations without penalty if a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued, or if a state of emergency is declared for Orlando within a week of the guest’s arrival. “We want you to feel safe and will work with you directly to best accommodate your needs,” park officials stated.
Disney World also has protocols in place for severe weather. Both resorts have emphasized the importance of safety for their guests and staff as they prepare for possible further disruptions.
Hurricane Helene’s Impending Impact
As Helene nears the Florida coast, it is expected to make landfall in the Big Bend area on Thursday night, potentially as a Category 3 hurricane. The storm poses a serious threat to Central Florida, including the Orlando metro area. The National Weather Service has warned of possible heavy rainfall, strong winds, and localized flooding, which could affect theme parks and other attractions.
Orlando and its surrounding areas are no strangers to hurricanes. When a storm makes landfall, the impacts can range from torrential rain to flooding, along with power outages. During previous storms, Orlando’s theme parks have often taken similar steps, closing outdoor attractions and water parks, while keeping indoor venues open when it is safe to do so.
Additional Preparations and Recommendations
As with any major storm, residents and visitors in Central Florida are urged to follow safety guidelines, including stocking up on emergency supplies, staying informed through official channels, and heeding any evacuation orders if issued. Both Disney and Universal recommend checking their apps and websites for the latest updates on closures and operational changes.
In addition to water parks and tours, transportation and hotel services may also be impacted by the storm. Travelers should stay in contact with their accommodations and plan accordingly for delays or disruptions.
Staying Informed
For real-time updates on Hurricane Helene and its effects on the Orlando area, visitors are encouraged to follow local news outlets, weather services, and official theme park announcements. Safety remains the top priority as Central Florida prepares for the storm’s potential devastation.
As the situation develops, both Disney and Universal will continue to make decisions that prioritize guest safety, with the possibility of additional closures or operational changes in the coming hours.
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