Hurricane Helene is no storm to the be trifled with. As the storm barrels toward Florida, the state and its neighbors prepare for its potentially disastrous impacts. This morning, a Tornado Watch was issued for Orange and Osceola Counties, where Walt Disney World Resort is found. This is in addition to a Tropical Storm Warning that is in effect for the area.
The National Weather Service has warned that tornados could be found in the rain bands of Hurricane Helene as it makes its way Northeast. The Tornado Watch means that the conditions are present where a tornado could happen. This means that guests visiting The Walt Disney World Resort should be diligent and pay attention to what is happening around them. They should also listen to cast members for safety instructions if conditions change.
If a Tornado Warning is issued, this will mean that a tornado has been spotted somewhere. This has not happened at this point. The National Weather Service has said that this could happen throughout the day as the storm comes closer.
Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall somewhere along the Florida Big Bend coast as a major hurricane this evening or early tomorrow morning. This morning the storm strengthened to a Category 2 storm. It is expected to become a major hurricane, which is a Category 3 or higher, when it makes landfall.
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee warned of storm surges of up to 20-feet in Florida’s Apalachee Bay. It also warned of the high winds and rains as well. “This forecast, if realized, is a nightmare surge scenario for Apalachee Bay,” the National Weather Service said. “Please, please, please take any evacuation orders seriously!”
While Hurricane Helene is not forecast to hit the area around Walt Disney World Resort directly, it will still impact. The rains and wind that accompanies the storm could lead to flooding and other damage in the communities in the area. It could also lead to potentially downed branches, trees, or other damage.
If you are at Walt Disney World Resort during this storm, please listen to Walt Disney World Resort cast members and officials. They are tasked with keeping guests and cast members safe and will be doing everything they can to do so. Daps Magic will continue to follow the progress of this storm and its impacts on the area.
