For a stress-free Disney or Universal Studios vacation, let the FREE expert planners at Royal Carriage Vacations take care of every detail including dining reservations, applying discounts, and onboard cruise credit.
Hurricane Ian has officially moved in, and after a long night we are beginning to see the damage caused by the storm.
Hurricane Ian
Late last week, we began our coverage of Hurricane Ian. It has officially hit Florida and the Orlando area, and Disney World has been taking precautions for the last few days in preparation. First, the parks and Disney Springs were closed yesterday and again today. They may be closed again tomorrow.
Second, new resort reservations are halted until October 2, and Disney is going above and beyond for those Guests riding out the storm on property. Meal kits and special activities are helping Guests feel at ease during the hurricane.
Damage from such a strong storm is to be expected, and it appears the first round occurred last night, September 28.
Swan, Dolphin, Contemporary
According to WESH 2 News, flooding picked up Wednesday night at the Swan and Dolphin resort, which is located in the Epcot resort area. The video shows intense wind and rain at the hotel along with a lot of rainwater on the ground. With Disney’s BoardWalk, Beach Club, and Yacht Club close by, it’s possible flooding is taking place there too.
According to another Twitter user, there is damage sustained to one of the buildings at the Contemporary Resort. It appears that two panels have fallen off, but we are unsure if there is any other damage.
Disney World is such a large place and different spots were affected to varying degrees by Hurricane Ian.
It’s still too early to tell since the storm is not over yet, but so far the damage does not seem too major. Disney will likely need to deal with some leaks and wind damage versus heavy structural damage. There is likely some form of flooding or leaking taking place throughout several Disney World resorts today.
Other Areas Nearby
OCFire Rescue shared photos of rescue attempts throughout Orange County, Florida. We are so thankful for the first responders who are out there risking it all and working in these conditions.
In addition, here is a video of I-4 Express westbound lanes that are flooded near Universal Studios.
It is reported that over a foot of rain fell on Orange County overnight and winds reached up to 80 mph. Additionally, 173,000 people are without power in the county alone with another 2.6 million without power in all of Florida.
In the next video, you can see the cars submerged by a lot of water at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel. We hope the area is able to fully recover soon.
Are you at Disney World today? What is the situation like at your resort? Share your experience with us in the comments below and on Facebook.
Share the love!
Shawn DeVore
Tuesday 4th of October 2022
Supposed to leave in about 17 days do I keep plans or should I cancel. Staying at the swan
Maureen Solomon
Thursday 29th of September 2022
I'm keeping everybody in my heart my thoughts and my prayers stay strong God got the last word of everything I hope and prayer everybody got out their home safe and sound with their families emergency break through prayer for everybody I don't wish this on nobody nobody whatever state you may be living in my hearts and prayers go out to everybody around the whole new navigation I'm giving all my love support to everybody out there in Jesus name amen amen to all the families and loved ones and also to all the ones that you know lost their homes my prayers and hearts and thoughts while telling you all in Jesus holy name just keep praying God will work it out I love all of y'all
Jack a vasper
Thursday 29th of September 2022
At Port Orleans French Quarter. Minimal damage if any, lots of broken tree debris on the walkways. Other than that nothing major.
AO
Thursday 29th of September 2022
We are at swan&dolphin. Lake did not breach the bank looking over to Boardwalk, but the sloped grassy area at Dolphin has a little more water than normal. No debris on the walkway over at Bwalk as far as I can see.
Ian Lamble
Thursday 29th of September 2022
I feel so sorry for those that have saved and saved for either their first ever visit or those returning after such a long time after COVID. However and most importantly stay safe. Just remember some have lost a lot more.