The National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne, FL has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Orange County, which includes the Walt Disney World Resort and surrounding areas, effective from 3:57 PM EDT until 7:00 PM EDT today, October 9, 2024.
This warning comes as intense thunderstorms continue to drop significant rainfall across central Florida, with the potential for flash flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
Flash Flood Warning Details
Affected Counties: Orange, Osceola, Brevard, Indian River, Seminole, and Volusia counties.
Rainfall Totals: Between 2 to 4 inches of rain have already fallen in the area, and additional rainfall of 2 to 4 inches is expected.
Flash Flood Risk: Areas at risk include small creeks, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and other low-lying areas.
Locations that are particularly vulnerable to flash flooding include Bay Lake (home to Walt Disney World), Kissimmee, Orlando, Winter Park, and surrounding regions.
Hazard and Impact
According to the NWS, the flash flooding is being caused by slow-moving thunderstorms that are producing torrential rain. Radar and automated gauges indicate that water levels in creeks and urban areas have begun to rise quickly. Low-lying areas within the Walt Disney World Resort, including parking lots, roads, and other locations prone to poor drainage, are at risk for flooding.
Flash Flood Impact
- Flooding of streets and underpasses is expected.
- Small streams and creeks may overflow, causing dangerous conditions in localized areas.
- Urban areas and highways are likely to experience standing water, making driving hazardous.
Safety Measures for Guests at Walt Disney World
Guests at Walt Disney World and nearby locations should remain indoors during the flash flood warning and avoid attempting to travel on roads that may be flooded. The NWS advises, “Turn around, don’t drown”—most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles when drivers attempt to navigate through flooded roads.
Additional Measures
Walt Disney World Resort has already taken precautionary measures in response to Hurricane Milton, which is expected to further impact the area. As of earlier today, the theme parks and Disney Springs were closed in preparation for the incoming storm, and resort guests are being advised to shelter in place as conditions deteriorate.
Disney’s transportation services have also been suspended, with limited options for Minnie Van and Mears taxi services still available for guests staying at the resort hotels.
Stay Safe and Informed
Residents and visitors in the affected areas, including those at Walt Disney World, are advised to stay indoors, avoid traveling through flooded areas, and monitor weather alerts via their smartphones or local news stations.
As Hurricane Milton continues to approach, the flash flood risk is expected to remain high, and additional severe weather may occur overnight and into tomorrow.
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