Quick Summary of What is Happening at Disney in Prep for Irma

Disney has rarely closed its parks due to hurricanes. In fact they have only closed four times, most recently last year. They have already made an announcement to close this weekend. Here is what is taking place now at Disney:

Disney announced on Friday its four major theme parks will close early on Saturday afternoon and remain closed through Monday with hopes of reopening on Tuesday. This means special events and all shows are cancelled. The closings are phased as Cast Members secure anything and everything from the flags on the Main Street buildings, to tables, chairs, etc.

Guests who elect to stay are to remain inside their resort room (or where Disney tells them to move to, such as a convention center location depending on the situation). If you're curious about details on what this experience may entail, let me know, I have a composite of guests stories from last year's hurricane Matthew.

Dining reservations are not being taken for the weekend and cancellation fees are waived.

Guests at the Fort Wilderness campground have already been evacuated. As these guest my have pets (the only place guests can bring them), and Disney has waived its 'no pet' policy allowing non-service animals in the hotel rooms.

The Animals at Animal Kingdom are housed nightly in top of the line hurricane proof shelters and will be well protected. The shelters are very nice. Most guests don't realize that the animals on the Safari don't stay there at night. The animals are called into their enclosures every night using sound cues, different cues for each animal. The animals at AKLodge are the exception, as they live there full time. They also have enclosures for them though.

Disney has published a FAQ page along with its cancellation policy on their website for guest who had plans to arrive within the next 7 days. All of Disney resorts are built to withstand hurricane force winds. If you have questions, feel free to ask me.