Hurricane Milton Intensifies as Category 5 Hurricane Makes Its Way Toward Disney World and Universal Orlando

Disney World and Universal Orlando are in the path of Hurricane Milton, and preparations are already under way. Ahead of Milton making landfall on Wednesday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency that includes several counties, including Orange County — the home of Orlando’s theme parks.

The Orlando International Airport (MCO) will suspend operations ahead of Milton’s arrival on Wednesday, further complicating travelers getting to and from Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying as it barrels toward central Florida, now reaching a powerful Category 5 status. Over the past 24 hours, Milton’s winds have surged dramatically, skyrocketing by over 85 mph to hit 160 mph as of Monday, October 7th. This extreme intensification has meteorologists sounding the alarm, as the storm’s potential for devastation grows with every passing hour. It’s set to make landfall by midweek, likely on Florida’s west-central coast, with the Tampa Bay area and surrounding regions bracing for impact​.

Forecasters are warning of significant storm surges, destructive winds, and heavy rains that could affect a broad swath of central Florida. Although Milton might weaken slightly before landfall, the massive storm surge built up during its time in the Gulf of Mexico will still pose a significant threat. Evacuation orders have already been issued in low-lying areas, as Milton’s arrival comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which impacted parts of Florida less than two weeks ago​.

Will Disney World or Universal Orlando Close for Hurricane Milton?

It’s very possible that Disney World or Universal could close due to the hurricane, as they closed the parks in September 2022 for Hurricane Ian. ‘If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center 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 Disney Resort hotel packages and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney,’ according to Disney’s website.

If you’re in the projected path, now is the time to finalize preparations and keep a close eye on updates from local authorities. And if you’re planning a vacation, stay tuned to Disney and Unviersal’s official social media accounts for any announcements of closure.