How Disney World Prepares for Hurricanes…from the Skyliner to Characters to 24/7 Storm Teams

Well, it’s almost that time again.

Yep, hurricane season will be here before we know it. Hurricane season generally runs from June 1st through November 30th, although we’ve seen some years have storms earlier and later than that. So let’s say you have a Disney World trip planned for that time. Here’s what you need to know about how the resort prepares for hurricanes.

Resort wide

If a hurricane is expected to make landfall in Florida and make its way through the Orlando area, one thing you will see are signs posted throughout Disney World warning of potential hours changes for stores and parks, as well as potential closings.

Both of Disney World’s miniature golf courses might also close as an added precaution.  Many shows could also announce closures, such as Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and Cirque du Soleil: Drawn to Life.

Transportation

If a hurricane is headed Disney World’s way, transportation will also be impacted. Both the Monorail and Skyliner will close.

Boats will also be unavailable during storms. Buses MAY still be running, but that depends on if the parks and Disney Springs close due to the weather.

Park Changes

Disney World also makes changes in the parks. If hurricane weather is headed its way, you’ll notice that beverage carts will be removed. Restaurants will remove outdoor seats, tables, and umbrellas. Banners, tarps, and anything that could be blown away in high winds are also taken down.

We’ve also seen construction and maintenance equipment put away before storms, as well as outdoor light fixtures wrapped in plastic.

Of course, the biggest thing you might see at the parks is a change in hours or even park closures.

Hotel Changes

Disney World will also make a lot of changes at hotels, including going so far as to close certain hotels, like Galactic Starcruiser. Other hotels may stop taking reservations temporarily for affected dates.

At the hotels, visitors will see more resort activities, including special character meet and greets, as well as games, crafts, movie marathons, and more. Hurricane Meal Kits will also be available for guests stranded at their hotels.

Cast Members

There will be a specific crew of Cast Members who will be available 24/7 for Disney World guests during a hurricane. These Cast Members will work long hours, sometimes for several days in a row, to make sure that guests are safe and well-accommodated.

These Cast Members will also do their best to make sure guests who are stranded at hotels are entertained with the resort activities we mentioned above.

Refunds and Cancellations

Disney World also has a specific hurricane policy for those people who want to cancel a trip if a hurricane is imminent in the Orlando area. If the National Hurricane Center issues a hurricane warning for the Orlando area within seven days of your arrival date, you can reschedule or cancel your Disney World trip without any cancellation or change fees.

You will be able to change or cancel your trip online for most room-only and vacation packages.

So if you are headed to Disney World during hurricane season, you now should have a good idea of how the company prepares for an actual hurricane. If you’re traveling during the 2023 hurricane season, here are six critical dates you need to know about.

We’ll also keep you updated about hurricanes headed to the Orlando area, so be sure to check back with AllEars often.

Have you ever been in Disney World during a hurricane? Let us know in the comments!