We’re keeping a close eye on Hurricane Milton as it heads for Florida.

©NOAA

Businesses and residents of Central Florida have been preparing for the incoming storm. Both Disney World and Universal Orlando are planning temporary closures ahead of the storm, and locals are evacuating or preparing to shelter in place by stocking up on the essentials. Now that we’re mid-week and the storm is coming closer, what do things look like?

As of 8AM on Wednesday, October 9th, the National Hurricane Center is warning people in Central Florida about the possibility of flash flooding. Rainfall totals for the storm are projected up to 18 inches, and that level of rain brings the projected flooding of major rivers or bodies of water.

Wed 8am-The @NWSWPC is forecasting a high risk of flash flooding from #Milton with rainfall totals up to 18 inches over the Florida Peninsula. This rainfall brings the risk of catastrophic and life-threatening flash and urban flooding, along with moderate to major river flooding pic.twitter.com/GaHwJecfjS

— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) October 9, 2024

According to the latest update on the National Hurricane Center website, the western coast of Florida seems to be at the greatest risk, with a likelihood of destructive storm surge and “devastating hurricane-force winds.” Those in the Storm Surge Warning Area are encouraged to evacuate immediately.

©NHC

At this time, Milton is forecast to remain a hurricane as it passes across the Florida peninsula. Those in the area should make preparations to ensure the safety of life and property and be ready in case of long-duration power outages.

©NHC

As of Wednesday, October 9th, a tornado warning was issued until 3:00 PM for Osceola County which includes parts of Disney World.

FIRST WARNING: Tornado Warning (Observed) issued for Osceola County until 3:00 PM

— Eric Burris (@EricBurrisWESH) October 9, 2024

At 5PM ET, key messages for Hurricane Milton were released, detailing that the highest storm surge is expected to be 10 feet or higher along a portion of the west-central coast of the Florida Peninsula. The coast will also see damaging waves in addition to the storm surge. Hurricane-force winds are expected all throughout Florida, and tornado warnings will continue into the evening hours across the southern and central portions of Florida.

5pm EDT Oct 9th Key Messages for #Hurricane #Milton:

Many hazards ongoing in association with the hurricane currently, with life-threatening storm surge & hurricane-force winds expected on west FL Peninsula tonight.https://t.co/LQEVorqXZH pic.twitter.com/2WEiFIfHqe

— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) October 9, 2024

We’ll continue to keep an eye on the storm and let you know if any more news or information is released. Keep in mind that Disney World parks are closing in stages throughout the day and Universal Orlando is set to close at 2PM today in preparation for the storm. If you’re in the area (on vacation or you’re a local), please be safe and responsible during the storm!

Rainy day at Hollywood Studios ahead of Hurricane Milton

We’ll keep an eye out for any updates and let you know what’s going on, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest.

Click Here to Get the Details on the Disney World Closure!