Disney World in Storm Idalia line of fire amid hurricane warnings
Tropical Storm Idalia could smash into Orlando bringing devastation to Disney and Universal theme parks along its projected path.
The path of the expected hurricane estimates it could bring life-threatening surges and winds to the state of Florida by Tuesday. As of this morning, the storm was around 90 miles (150km) off the western tip of Cuba with maximum sustained winds of 60mph (100 kph).
A number of weather warnings have been issued for the region, with a Tropical Storm watch advisories for Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Idalia was expected to move northward on Monday, then turn north-northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday and move at a faster pace.
The centre was forecast to pass over the extreme southeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Tuesday and reach Florida's western coast on Wednesday. Along a vast stretch of Florida's west coast, up to 11ft (3.4m) of ocean water could surge on shore, raising fears of destructive flooding.
Tropical Storm Idalia moves between Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, left, and Cuba, right (AP)Orlando International Airport released a statement on Twitter about the storm, reminding passengers that delays and cancelations are likely to happen with the heavy winds and rainfall projected for the area. They added: "If you’re flying soon, it would be a good idea to contact your airline for more information."
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Tampa International Airport announced they are suspending all flights as of 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia, with no word on exactly when the airport will resume flights - but most travellers should expect to stay put until Thursday.
The airport put out a statement via X, better known as Twitter: "The closure will allow the Airport and its partners to prepare the airfield and terminals, including the securing of jet bridges, ground equipment and any remaining aircraft before Idalia’s expected landfall early Wednesday as a potential major hurricane."
National Hurricane Center tracker map shows exact times storm Idalia will hit Florida (National Hurricane Center)"Some cargo and private aircraft operations could continue overnight, but all air traffic will cease by 7 a.m. Tuesday morning. The Airport, including the Main Terminal and Airsides will be closed to all visitors and is not equipped to function as a shelter," continues the statement.
"The Airport anticipates reopening Thursday morning, with damage assessments beginning after the storm passes."
Robb Lloyd, currently on a holiday to Disney, said warnings had been sent out to phones, but claimed no park closures of official Disney warnings have been issued. Robb, from the UK, said: "Today we went to Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. The warnings went off on our phones, that's about it.
Tropical Storm Idalia path as it is set to crash into the US (NOAA)"I haven't heard or read anything about the Disney Parks closing but we're going to just keep an eye on things."
Disney World’s Weather Updates & Information page read: "Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members."
Disney introduced a Hurricane Cancellation policy in 2006 to give guests peace of mind in the event of tropical weather impacting operations.
Members of the Tampa, Florida, Parks and Recreation Dept., help residents with sandbags ahead of the storm (AP)As part of its cancellation policy Disney claims: "The standard Walt Disney World cancellation policy available throughout the year is up to 5 days prior to arrival without penalty.
"If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within 7 days of your scheduled arrival date, you may call in advance to reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Disney Resort Hotel Package and most room-only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney."
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