In preparation for Hurricane Matthew’s Florida landfall, the Walt Disney World resort will be closing down for the safety of guests.
“Based on the most recent forecasts for Hurricane Matthew, Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs, miniature golf courses and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will all be closed today by 5 p.m., and will remain closed through Friday, Oct. 7,” said a Walt Disney World spokeswoman.
Guests have been evacuated from several of the resorts, including the Fort Wilderness Campground, the Polynesian Bungalows, and the Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas. Resorts are communicating directly with guests about what they’ll need to know for the storm.
The parks website also includes an FAQ for guests about policies concerning canceled reservations and changed plans due to hurricanes.
While the Disney World resort rarely closes for weather, several hurricanes have resulted in modified hours and outright closures in the past, including Hurricane Charley in 2004, which passed over central Florida directly, and Hurricane Floyd in 1999.