If you have a trip booked between June and November to Walt Disney World Resort, you will be going during hurricane season. Although some months (like September and October) are more active, there is always a chance for tropical storms and hurricanes to build during these months.
For those that might have a trip booked during a potential hurricane treat, there are a few things that you can do to help yourself be more prepared. We want to share these things with you so you can plan ahead and be as prepared as possible if a storm does show up during your Disney vacation.
Don’t Panic
First and foremost, don’t panic. Walt Disney World is prepared for hurricanes. Disney often remains open throughout the storm and if they do have to close, they are procedures and protocols in place to keep everyone safe but still enjoying the magic.
Don’t assume the worse. Hurricanes and their strength constantly are changing. This means that even if one is predicted, things can change. Know the Walt Disney Company will have a plan and you will be safe.
Plan Ahead
If you are traveling down during hurricane season, make sure you pack items to help you battle the elements if they were to show up.
Rain gear is so important to have. What usually impacts Disney during a hurricane is rain and winds. Bring items to help keep your items dry. Pack Ziplocs to put items in so they stay dry. If you get caught in hurricane rain, your backpack isn’t going to keep anything dry. Being able to toss cell phones, chargers, and other important items into a Ziploc is important.
Along those same lines, make sure that you have ponchos and rain gear. You will want to have these with you each day in the Park as the rain can come quickly. Don’t wait to purchase a poncho until it begins your rain. You will be fighting a lot of other Guests which can be frustrating.
Toss those ponchos in the bag so you are ready to throw them on quickly.
We also recommend thinking through your footwear. The Disney Parks do often flood when strong rains happen. This means that you will be walking through puddles. As wet socks and shoes are the worse to walk around in, consider packing some extras. Having socks to change into or even sandals that work in the rain can make a big difference.
Having these items packed and ready can set you up for success during your trip if a hurricane shows up.
Pay Attention
Even though we typically go to Walt Disney World to escape the rest of the world, if a hurricane has the potential of showing up, that isn’t the time to ignore the news and weather. Make sure you have apps downloaded that will keep you updated.
We also recommend making sure that the My Disney Experience app is updated and allowing push notifications. This is one way that Disney will communicate with Guests when important information needs to be shared.
Make sure that you listen to the Disney Cast Members as well. They will be up to date on what precautions Disney is taking. These amazing people are trained to keep you safe, so make sure you listen even if you don’t like the answer.
Have Supplies
Disney will always make sure their Guests are taken care of; however, if you do need to shelter in place (stay in your room) make sure that you have snacks for everyone. We typically make sure we have snacks anyways, but as a parent, you know your kids will be hungry as soon as you are told to stay put.
Think about what snacks you can grab at the store in your hotel or plan ahead and have some delivered. Doing this ahead of the storm can help set you up for success. We also recommend thinking through charging items ahead of time. You will want to have cell phones and portable chargers ready to go, fully charged.
It Won’t Ruin Everything
A hurricane may cause Walt Disney World to shut down for a short period of time, but it typically isn’t for a long period of time. Know that you will still be able to enjoy the Disney Parks, Disney Resort, and restaurants.
Disney offers a lot of experiences that can be enjoyed in the rain. Be aware of which ones these are so you can take advantage of them during your trip. Even if they aren’t the top experiences on your list, they might be a surprising find.
Be Flexible
If you do happen to be at Walt Disney World during a hurricane, make sure that you remain flexible. You might have to adjust your Park days, your dining reservations, or other plans. We know that having to make changes to plans you have spent sometimes years thinking about isn’t fun, but sometimes it has to happen.
Go in with a positive attitude and then work with Disney Cast Members to make the most out of the situation. Remember their goal is to help keep you safe.
If you happen to be at Walt Disney World during a hurricane, these are some of the things you need to know. Always keep in mind that Disney’s goal is to keep their Guests safe before anything else. Stay connected and be prepared with having appropriate items ready to go.
Taking these steps can help you navigate the day if a hurricane does impact your trip.
