Hurricane Irma: What we know about the storm and Disney World closures

As of 5 p.m. Sept. 7, 2017, Irma is a Category 5 storm near the heading to the Turks and Caicos Island and heading for the Bahamas. It should be reaching Florida Saturday night into Sunday. However, we should feel the effect of the winds in the Orlando area Saturday morning. The exact path of the hurricane is unknown at this point. The latest model, however, does have the storm going through the middle of Florida.  The National Weather Service should have better idea Friday into Saturday. Either way, this is a huge storm and everyone should be prepared.

What is the status of airports?

Orlando International Airport announced it will cease operations at 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 9. There is no indication when the airport will reopen.

What do I do if I am staying at Disney World?

Here is a link our tips on how to prepare for the storm if you are staying on Disney World property. This can also be applied for those staying at near-by resorts.

What do I do if I was supposed to be going to Disney World in the next few days?

Disney has a specific Hurricane policy if you have booked a trip through Walt Disney World Travel. Here is the company’s FAQ.

Is Disney World open?

Yes. As of 5 p.m., Sept. 7 Disney is operating normally and will mot likely be operating normally all day Sept. 8. After that, it will make announcements as things change.

Have anything closings been announced at Disney World?

Yes. Blizzard Beach will be closed Sept. 8 and Sept. 9 due to the Hurricane.

Has Disney World canceled any events?

Yes. Disney has canceled the the Sept. 9 Night of Joy special event and the Sept. 10 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

The Night of Joy at ESPN Wide World of Sports Completes has been canceled for Sept. 9. The Sept. 8 event is still taking place. Guests with tickets for the Saturday event can attend the Friday by exchanging tickets at the box office after 4 p..m. on Friday. Requests for a full refund for either event night will be honored.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for Sept. 10 has ben canceled. The Sept. 7 event is still scheduled. For those who have tickets, you can either exchange tickets for another Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, exchange tickets for an upcoming Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, or exchange tickets for a 1 Day Magic Your Way Ticket with Park Hopper Option to be used in the next 2 years.

Have any resorts closed?
Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will closed on Saturday at 2 p.m. According to a letter given to Disney guests: “We are encouraging all of Our campground Guests traveling with their own vehicles to depart as soon as possible so you can travel a safe distance from the area.”