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Hurricane Milton's potential landfall in Florida Wednesday has affected the tourism industry in the Sunshine State. Florida is home to several major theme parks, including Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld. The hurricane has affected airline services, closing down several airports and cancelling at least 2000 flights, as well as the major theme parks in the state.
Known for its expansive beaches, cruise and theme parks, Florida is an all-season tourism destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. Though tourists would face difficulty reaching the Sunshine State amid the canceled flights and airport closures induced by the potential landfall, some theme parks remained open, while some announced partial closure.
Disney World
Disney World and SeaWorld will remain open, as of this writing. The parks have said that they are monitoring the development of the storm closely and will take additional measures in the coming days.
Disney stated it was operating under normal conditions, with plans to close only its campgrounds and rental cabins in wooded areas for now. The Associated Press reported that Disney Springs, the only sign of the approaching hurricane was the closure of a hot air balloon ride, with a sign reading, "Closed due to hurricane. Stay safe."
Although Disney rarely closes except for major events like dangerous hurricanes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the September 11 attacks, its hotels often serve as shelters for coastal residents. Disney World’s online reservation system on Tuesday showed no vacancies, the AP report said.
Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando Resort, meanwhile, announced operational changes due to the Hurricane. On October 9, Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk will close at 2 p.m. local time. It will remain fully closed on October 10. Universal Volcano Bay will also remain closed on both days. Additionally, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida is canceled for October 9 and 10, it was announced.
Despite these closures, Universal's hotels will continue operating. The resort plans to fully reopen, including resuming Halloween Horror Nights, on Friday, October 11, depending on the storm's impact.
Update from Universal Orlando Resort. For more information and FAQs, visit https://t.co/4NqV4mCDt4pic.twitter.com/ReZ565xKi5
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) October 8, 2024
SeaWorld
SeaWorld, Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and Busch Gardens announced the closure of their Florida parks on October 9 and 10 due to Hurricane Milton. The closures are to ensure the safety of guests, staff, and animals. Updates on reopening, expected on Friday, October 11, will be provided after the storm, SeaWorld said in a statement Tuesday.
Stay safe, Florida 💙 For more information, please visit https://t.co/XCMBh9RD6Vpic.twitter.com/Tg1EgJggas
— SeaWorld (@SeaWorld) October 8, 2024