Tropical Storm Milton has been upgraded to a hurricane. The now Category 1 hurricane is gaining steam as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico and heads toward Florida. This comes as the region continues to recover from last week’s Hurricane Helene.
Hurricane Milton currently has sustained winds of up to 80 miles per hour and is expected to have “steady and rapid strengthening” in the coming days, according to the National Hurricane Center. It is quite possible that the storm could become a major hurricane by the time it makes landfall on Wednesday. A major hurricane is defined as any hurricane that is at least a Category 3 storm. In this case, winds would be at speeds of 111 to 128 miles per hour and can cause “devastating damage,” the National Hurricane Center warns.
As the storm continues to move closer to Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis expanded a State of Emergency to 16 more counties. In total, 51 of Florida’s 67 counties are now included in this State of Emergency. “A major hurricane is the most likely outcome,” said Governor DeSantis. “This is not a good track for the state of Florida.”
The Walt Disney World Resort has not changes the bulk of its operations at this point. However, a statement on its website says that Disney is monitoring the storm. The following post is now on the website:
Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected storm as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.
Already the Walt Disney World Resort has stopped accepting new reservations for hotels during the storm. It also is no longer allowing guests to make new park reservations on October 9th. It is very possible that it will close multiple outdoor offerings as the storm’s impact is evaluated.
Daps Magic will continue to follow the progress and impact of this storm and provide updates as they become available. If you are staying at Walt Disney World Resort this week, please follow the instructions of Disney cast members and official for the safety of yourself and those around you. Disney is very good at preparing for major weather events like this and safety is the utmost priority.
