Updated 2:45pm: Since publishing this article, additional closures have been announced at Walt Disney World due to Hurricane Helene.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, originally scheduled for September 26, 2024, has been canceled, and guests will receive refunds. Additionally, Typhoon Lagoon and all miniature golf courses will be closed for the entire day. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, the following Enchanting Extras Collection experiences are also canceled: Savor the Savanna, Up Close with Rhinos, Walking with Giants, and Wild Africa Trek. To accommodate guests, Magic Kingdom's operating hours have been extended until 8 pm on September 26.
Original Article:
As Hurricane Helene strengthens and moves closer to Florida, Walt Disney World has announced its first closures in preparation for the storm.
Walt Disney World's mini-golf courses and Typhoon Lagoon Water Park will not operate on Thursday, September 26, 2024, as the resort takes precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its guests and Cast Members. Disney's Blizzard Beach is already closed for its annual refurbishment.
Disney has confirmed that Typhoon Lagoon will remain closed for the entire day on September 26, as Tropical Storm Helene is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to the area. The decision to close the water park comes as the National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Central Florida, including Orange and Osceola counties, where Walt Disney World is located. The storm is expected to bring gusts of up to 60 mph and several inches of rainfall, making it unsafe for outdoor operations.
Additional Closures Possible
While only Typhoon Lagoon has been confirmed for closure so far, Disney is closely monitoring the storm and may announce additional closures or changes to park operations in the coming hours. Guests planning to visit other Walt Disney World parks, such as Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, should stay updated through Disney's My Disney Experience app for any real-time changes or closures.
Disney emphasized that it is prioritizing guest and Cast Member safety during the storm. In a statement, the company said, "We are continuing to monitor the path of Tropical Storm Helene and will make operational decisions accordingly. The safety of our Guests and Cast Members is our top priority."
Hurricane Helene's Impact on Central Florida
Hurricane Helene, is forecast to bring dangerous conditions to Central Florida. Wind gusts, heavy rain, and localized flooding are the primary concerns, with outer rain bands expected to hit the region as early as Wednesday night. The storm is expected to make its closest approach to Central Florida on Thursday, prompting Disney to take these early precautionary measures.
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