Disney World Remains Open as Hurricane Debby Makes Landfall in Florida

Hurricane Debby strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane overnight and made landfall on Florida’s Big Bend region early Monday morning.

Magic Kingdom

The hurricane is expected to bring major flooding over the southeastern United States in the next few days and certain areas are still being threatened by the possibility of tornadoes.

It can be scary to be in the Orlando area when hurricanes and severe weather are making their way through the area. It is important to pay attention to warnings and watches that are being issued and also take precautions to ensure you and your group stay safe. Luckily Disney World has been through a few hurricanes. The resort and its Cast Members are well-prepared for hurricanes, and even with severe weather, you can still have a great time at Disney World.

Rainy Day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Even as Hurricane Debby makes its way onto land bringing rain and wind into the Orlando area, theme parks are still operating as normal. All of the Orlando area theme parks including Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld are operating with normal operating hours on Monday, August 5th, 2024.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Even though all the theme parks are operating as normal, make sure you are being careful traveling and pay attention to alerts and warnings that may be issued as Hurricane Debby moves through the area. This morning a tornado warning was issued for Orange County that lasted until 9:15AM. Make sure you and your group are staying safe and listening to any Cast Member directions.

A ⚠️tornado warning⚠️ is in effect in Orange County this morning until 9:15 AM. Rotation was seen on radar over Bay Lake. Recommended action per the weather alert is to take shelter in place in an interior room away from windows. pic.twitter.com/NwaTmtrMzu

— Disney Food Blog (@DisneyFoodBlog) August 5, 2024

However, even though it will be a rainy day in Disney World that does not mean you should let the rain and wind put a damper on your day! Bring your rain gear, an extra pair of shoes, and a positive attitude as a rainy day at Disney World can be a fantastic day. Be patient with Cast Members and understand that some attractions may not be operating and certain entertainment offerings may also be canceled or modified. But there is still so much to do and you can often enjoy lower crowds during a rainy day at Disney World.

Rainy Day at EPCOT

For even more tips to surviving hurricane season in Disney World and less than ideal weather, make sure you check out our video on surviving hurricane season in Disney World:

Our thoughts are with everyone who are being impacted by Hurricane Debby. Please stay safe as the hurricane continues to bring severe weather across the country. Stay tuned to DFB for Disney World news and updates!