You’ve planned your magical vacation to Disney World. The trip has been paid for. Then comes the news of severe weather headed toward Florida just in time for your stay. What happens now? In the last couple of weeks, both Disneyland Resort and Disney World have faced or are currently facing severe weather threats. Here is a look at what choices and options guests of Disney properties have if Mother Nature would like to visit at the same time. Does Disney close for bad weather?
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
Inclement Weather vs. Dangerous Storms
As a general rule, Disney properties do not close for “inclement weather”. However, cast member and guest safety is very important. No two storms are the same. Disney monitors the weather. In the end, decisions are made based on the latest reports for safety. Disney parks have closed in the past due to hurricanes. Most recently, Disney World theme parks were closed for approximately 36 hours for Hurricane Ian in September 2022.
However, while the parks and Disney Springs will close for safety reasons, the resorts will remain open with limits. In the past, Disney has simply requested that guests who have already checked in and are on property shelter in place in their rooms or indoor resort common areas. In addition, Disney transportation may halt in the event of bad weather. The Skyliner resorts and Magic Kingdom resorts will not have access to either the Skyliner or the Monorail during a closure.
Please keep in mind during Hurricane Ian and other storms, check-in was suspended during the hours of the most severe weather. You may not be able to “begin” your vacation if the storm is in progress.
The theme parks and Disney Springs may close, if necessary, but guests on property are not asked to leave. If you are scheduled to arrive during a storm that forces Disney to adjust operation, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the impact it will have on your trip.
Will Disney Offer a Refund if They Close the Parks for Weather?
Weather or not (pun intended), guests are able to cancel vacation packages for a full refund up to 30 days prior to their arrival. From 30 days to 2 days prior to arrival, guests will receive a refund minus cancellation fees. If guests cancel within a 24-hour window of arrival, package costs are non-refundable.
In the case of a severe weather situation, the practice for Disney destinations has been to forgo the cancellation fees on most packages/room costs if guests cannot or decide not to travel during the impact of the storm. The latest statement from Disney regarding Hurricane Idalia is exactly that. Guests can choose to cancel or modify their plans without cancellation fees during a limited period.
For those guests who choose to travel and find themselves on Disney property when the theme parks close, the ticket for the day/s the parks were closed may be refunded. More recently, Disney’s policy was to extend the time of use for the ticket. In other words, guests keep the value of the ticket for another stay for a limited time.
Does Disney Provide Necessities During a Park Closure to On-Site Guests
In the past, cast members and staff have provided both food and entertainment during park closures due to severe weather. The food service locations at the resorts will remain operational with possibly limited hours.
In addition, Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney favorites have been known to visit resorts during closures to help entertain guests. If it is safe to venture to the lobby, you may also find activities led by cast members to help ease anxiety or boredom.
Consider This
It is not just a Disney Park closure that could impact your trip. The airport and other modes of transportation could close or stop operations even if Disney theme parks remain open. Whether you have flights that have been cancelled and/or the area is under a state of emergency, your vacation could be unexpectedly upended.
While Disney may offer refunds without cancellation fees, it is very important to know whether your flights/shuttle service has a refund/cancellation policy. Did you purchase travel insurance? What does that cover? In addition, the same rules may not apply if you are staying at a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel.
This is where a travel advisor is an excellent resource to have for your vacation. Most travel advisors can provide you with the necessary information related to travel insurance, cancellation procedures, as well as act as your advocate when travel plans need to be adjusted for Disney trips or any destination.
What You Need to Know Now
Hurricane Idalia is predicted to impact the Orlando area this week. Disney has stated they continue to monitor the situation. Disney World is currently operating normally. For those considering cancelling/modifying their trip due to the storm, Disney has implemented that no cancellation fees will apply for trips cancelled now, through September 4, 2023. As of Tuesday, August 29, Orlando International Airport statement suggests their plan is to remain open for now.
If you would like more information on planning a vacation to Disney destinations or Universal Studios properties, you can submit a free no obligation quote request to start planning right away. You can also reach out to DizN Vacations. Their team of experienced travel professionals will help you build the trip perfectly suited for you.
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