Hurricane Watch Issued for Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando as Milton Becomes Category 5 Hurricane

Hurricane Milton Reaches Catastrophic Category 5 Strength, Major Threat to Florida Imminent

Hurricane Milton has rapidly intensified into a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane, the highest classification on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Data from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate that the storm is packing maximum sustained winds of 160 mph (250 km/h) with even higher gusts. The minimum central pressure has plummeted to 925 mb, signifying an extremely powerful and dangerous storm.

This alarming development poses a grave threat to Florida’s Gulf Coast, including the Tampa Bay and Orlando areas, home to Walt Disney World. The storm is expected to make landfall Wednesday evening, bringing with it life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds, torrential rainfall, and the potential for widespread devastation.

Hurricane Watch Details

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued a Hurricane Watch for several central Florida counties, including Orange County, indicating that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the watch area. Watches are typically issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated arrival of tropical storm-force winds.

Theme Park Precautions

Both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are closely monitoring Hurricane Milton’s progress. Walt Disney World has already taken several precautionary measures, including:

• Pausing new hotel reservations for October 9th and 10th.
• Blocking park reservations for October 9th.
• Waiving hotel cancellation and change fees.

At this time, neither resort has announced any closures related to the storm. However, guests with upcoming trips are urged to stay tuned for operational updates as the situation evolves.

State of Emergency in Effect

A State of Emergency remains in effect for Orange County and surrounding areas, declared on October 5th when Milton was still a tropical storm. This declaration enables authorities to mobilize resources and prepare for potential impacts.

Stay Informed

With Hurricane Milton posing a significant threat to central Florida, residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Monitor the latest updates from the National Hurricane Center and local news, and heed any evacuation orders issued by authorities.

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