As Hurricane Helene intensifies in the Gulf of Mexico, Central Florida is bracing for its impact. Now classified as a Category 2 hurricane, Helene is expected to escalate into a major hurricane before making landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region, several hours north of the iconic theme parks.
With the storm’s track and severity in focus, closures at popular theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are being announced, alongside extensive flight cancellations and travel disruptions affecting major airports including Tampa International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and Miami International Airport.
As Hurricane Helene makes its way through the southeastern United States, significant travel disruptions and safety measures are being implemented across major cities like Tampa, Miami, Orlando, and Atlanta. These cities are home to some of the busiest airports in the country, and the storm has already led to widespread flight cancellations. With Disney World also temporarily closing, travelers are experiencing delays and cancellations at airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Miami International, Orlando International, and Tampa International. These impacts are compounded by the storm’s projected path and intensification.
Atlanta, in particular, is bracing for severe weather as Helene moves closer. The city is expected to face tropical storm-force winds, heavy rain, lightning, and a possible tornado outbreak. With a Hurricane Warning in place across parts of southwest Georgia and a Tropical Storm Warning covering the Florida Keys and Tampa Bay, the forecast predicts 4 to 10 inches of rain, leading to widespread flooding. Preparations in Atlanta include securing loose items, schools transitioning to virtual sessions, and potential airport delays or closures at Hartsfield-Jackson and Tampa International Airport. The storm’s arrival could result in significant disruptions to daily life and travel across the region.
Central Florida’s Theme Parks Adjust for Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene, now a Category 1 hurricane, threatens to intensify in the Gulf of Mexico, theme parks across Central Florida are taking necessary precautions. Here’s how major parks are responding to the impending storm:
Walt Disney World’s Proactive Measures
In response to Hurricane Helene, Walt Disney World has announced closures and event cancellations:
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Theme Parks:
Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom will be closed on Thursday, September 26th.*
Water Parks:
Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will also be closed.*
Disney Springs:
This shopping and dining district will be closed.*
Events:
Several special events, including the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, have been canceled.Universal Orlando Resort Updates
Universal Orlando has also adjusted its operations due to the hurricane:
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Theme Parks:
Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay will be closed on Thursday, September 26th.*
CityWalk:
The entertainment complex will remain open with limited hours.SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay React
While SeaWorld Orlando has not issued a specific statement for Hurricane Helene, it assures guests with its “Weather-or-Not Assurance Policy,” promising a return visit in case of severe weather disruptions. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be closed on Thursday and directs guests to its weather policy for more information.
LEGOLAND Florida and Fun Spot America Standby
LEGOLAND Florida currently has no changes to its operations ahead of Helene. Similarly, Fun Spot America, with locations in Orlando and Kissimmee, has not announced any operational changes.
Significant Impact on Air Travel
The hurricane has led to widespread disruptions in air travel, significantly affecting major airports in the region with cancellations and delays:
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Tampa International Airport:
Numerous flights have been canceled, and travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates.*
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport:
The airport has experienced significant cancellations due to the storm’s projected path.*
Miami International Airport:
Flight disruptions are also being reported at Miami International Airport, with airlines implementing flexible rebooking policies.*
Orlando International Airport:
The airport has experienced significant cancellations and delays due to the storm’s impact.Local Attractions and Additional Disruptions
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will close on Thursday, with plans to reopen on Friday. Special events have been rescheduled, including the Lemurs of Madagascar event and its Sunset at the Zoo event now set for October 10.
Governor’s Response and Airline Flexibility
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 61 counties and issued both voluntary and mandatory evacuations in various areas. Major airlines, including Southwest, Delta, and United, have issued travel alerts and are offering flexible rebooking options for affected passengers.
As Hurricane Helene approaches, residents and visitors in Florida, particularly those planning to visit theme parks or travel, should keep abreast of all updates and follow safety instructions from local authorities and businesses.
