Staying at Disney During a Hurricane: Our Safe Adventure at Pop Century
When you think of Disney World, images of magical moments and thrilling rides likely come to mind—but what about experiencing it during a hurricane? Recently, I found myself at Pop Century during Hurricane Milton and came away with a newfound appreciation for Disney’s dedication to safety and the inventive ways they ensure guests still have a magical time, even during a storm.
Why Disney is a Safe Bet During Hurricanes
Disney World is actually one of the safest places to be during a hurricane. Cast members explained to us that the buildings were constructed with hurricane-force winds in mind, including a strategic T-shaped layout at Pop Century, designed to better handle airflow during tropical storms. This attention to structural integrity makes staying at Disney an attractive option if you happen to be in Florida during hurricane season.
Early Park Closures to Ensure Safety
In anticipation of Hurricane Milton, Disney proactively closed the parks by 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on the day the storm was expected, giving guests ample time to head back to their resorts. This gave us the opportunity to settle in, stock up on necessities, and take advantage of the activities that Disney planned for us back at Pop Century.
You can expect Disney to connect with guests using the My Disney Experience app. Below are some of the communications we received in reference to operations during Hurricane Milton:
Hurricane Fun: Disney-Style Activities and Free Arcade Play
Disney's hospitality shone through during this time. The Pop Century lobby transformed into a lively gathering spot where we enjoyed trivia games, character meet-and-greets, and upbeat music to lift everyone’s spirits. Not only that, but Disney made the arcade free, giving families the chance to relax and have fun while staying indoors. These small touches showed Disney's commitment to creating a safe, enjoyable experience, even when the weather is less than magical.
Food Options and Hurricane-Friendly Kits
Dining options during a hurricane can be tricky, but Disney had us covered. They offered $5 boxed meal options and Peanut Butter & Jelly kits for $10, which were a lifesaver for those of us wanting quick and easy meal solutions throughout the week. Disney’s advance planning really came through here, allowing guests to feel prepared and well-fed without scrambling for supplies.
Disney’s Preparedness: Interesting Facts About Disney and Hurricanes
Disney’s safety protocols extend beyond guest experience to detailed storm preparedness. Here are some fascinating facts about how Disney handles hurricanes:
Staying Powered Up: Disney has its own power plant, which helps keep electricity running at most resorts even if there are power outages in other parts of the area.
Storm-Resilient Landscaping: Many of Disney’s plants and trees are carefully chosen for their resilience, meaning they’re less likely to become debris during strong winds.
Specialty Trained Cast Members: Disney's Cast Members are trained in hurricane response and preparedness, so they’re equipped to handle emergencies efficiently and keep guests informed.
Disney's Commitment to Safety
Ultimately, Disney goes above and beyond to create a secure environment for guests, even in severe weather. Our time at Pop Century during Hurricane Milton taught me that Disney not only understands the importance of safety but actively works to blend it with comfort and care. The support of the Disney Cast Members and the smart design of their buildings helped make our stormy stay one to remember, for all the right reasons.
So if you ever find yourself at Disney during hurricane season, you can rest assured that Disney is ready to provide a secure, enjoyable experience even when Mother Nature has other plans!
