Hurricane Irma?

[WebmasterKathy]

Reading through this, I am astounded that anyone who has a choice is choosing to be in Orlando the next few days, ESPECIALLY those flying in between now and Saturday. Although no one knows for sure what Irma's path will be, odds are high that Sunday evening through Monday evening will see Cat 3 hurricane weather there. Not something to take lightly... if you CHOOSE to be there, be prepared for transportation disruptions. Know that attractions, dining venues, housekeeping, resort facilities, events like the Halloween party may be compromised. Cast members may be spread thin and not able to provide as much magic as you expect. Know that the whole state of Florida is under a lot of stress and catering to visitors comes second to public safety. Your grocery orders may not be delivered, your dining reservations may be cancelled, and your flights in and out may be chaotic, cancelled, and overbooked for days after the event.

If you CHOOSE to be there, please be considerate and compassionate to the cast members you encounter, and understanding of any changes to schedules and your plans. If you are confined to your resort room for a couple days with no power or your dining reservations are cancelled or attractions closed after the storm, don't consider this a Disney fail.

 

[FastPasser.]

"Not allowing them" isn't really correct. Cast members in a variety of areas volunteer to ride out the storm at work in order to provide guest service at resorts and to secure the parks and provide immediate clean up when everything is done. No one is forced to stay, at least not that I've ever been aware of.

Glad you clarified that. There are more than enough volunteer CMs to go around. For the CMs voluntarily participating, it can be a satisfying, exciting and fun experience. In addition to the "ride out crew", unless roads are impassible, which I doubt will be the case, CMs who's positions are not impacted will go in as scheduled.

 

[Raeven]

Is there a direct guest services number? When I called the ...1936 number I got a CM who couldn't see free dining availability and she transferred me to guest services where I waited 1 hour and 15 minutes and had to hang up. It took 45 minutes to get the first CM. Just seeing if there is a way to avoid the first hold waiting for someone who probably can't help me. Thanks for the info. I was wondering if guest services was more lienent on helping people keep free dining.

When I called last night to cancel my Mnsshp tickets they gave me what I think is the direct number to guest services in case I didn't want to wait and wanted to call back today it's 407-566-4985.

 

[wonder whisper]

Also...it looks like the latest models have this beast swinging out a tiiiiiiny bit further east...

A model is a prediction, not a fact. It provides an educated guess of what might happen. People here keep confusing the term "model" with tracking. As for the latter, the latest tracking from the NHS still has Irma moving north/northwest, it has not been moving east.

 

[yulilin3]

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:
This thread will be used only as discussion on impacts from this storm (Irma) on WDW.
As of right now the storm is expected to impact Central Florida as a Cat 3 on Sunday night into Monday.
Sustained winds forecasted for the WDW area are anywhere between 65mph to about 120mph
People that are not familiar with hurricanes need to know that these storms wobble and change trajectory but as we get closer to land fall the forecast will be much more reliable
I will continue to update this page and this newly formed page https://www.disboards.com/threads/h...d-info-wdw-theme-parks-open-mco-open.3632370/ with confirmed information and cite sources
Please visit local and government websites for confirmed information.
Posters that continue to post snarky/sarcastic/panicky responses will have their post deleted and points might be given

ALL IN ALL WE ARE HERE TO HELP PEOPLE PLAN FOR THEIR TRIP. THIS IS A SCARY SITUATION FOR MANY, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE THAT HAVE NEVER GONE THROUGH A STORM OF THIS NATURE. LETS NOT INSTILL MORE FEAR AND JUST RELY ON FACTS
Thank You

 

[AngiTN]

Glad you clarified that. There are more than enough volunteer CMs to go around. For the CMs voluntarily participating, it can be a satisfying, exciting and fun experience. In addition to the "ride out crew", unless roads are impassible, which I doubt will be the case, CMs who's positions are not impacted will go in as scheduled.

I know a lot of the crews we saw last year were having fun. It was something different from their day to day duties. The situation did not end up being stressful and I'm sure that had a significant impact on them and they were able to stay light and fun. Had things been worse it may not have been the case at all. If they weren't having fun they were all in the wrong profession and should be on stage acting because they put on an Oscar wining performance. I do think those who volunteer to help out truly do want to help out.

 

[peteykirch]

I'm at Poly front desk right now taking care of a couple things and was just told by the CM that they have already been told Sunday would be closed for sure and not sure about what after that. I know to take it with a grain of salt. Just wanted to pass along.

Funny I was down there as well this morning and had a CM who was totally indifferent to the situation. She couldn't make any promises about getting us a room extension anywhere on property if needed and also said that Disney isn't in the handout business and we shouldn't expect any discounts. The last bit really bothered my GF and myself. Especially after hearing during other big storms Disney was quick to make sure people were taken care of, and was giving people 40% off rack rate for an emergency extended stay.

 

[aleh021]

Models are prediction, not facts. People here keep confusing the term "model" with tracking. As for the latter, the latest tracking from the NHS still has Irma moving north/northwest, it has not been moving east.

On the NHS - it has move slightly east. Not west.

 

[Ametista]

What time Saturday?

We are supposed to arrive at 1:30 pm.

 

[yulilin3]

11am track

 

[piglet1979]

What kinds of winds will end up shutting down the parks/restaurants? 30mph? 40mph? As of right now, I'm not seeing a lot of (or any) wind speeds over that from the latest GFS, but of course predictions can always be off. Just curious what people have experienced when they have been there during other storms (tropical storms, not necessarily hurricanes).

We were at Disney June 2016 when a Tropical Storm came through. I was very worried as I have never been through one. After it was over it was no more then the really bad storms we get here in Northeast Ohio. The parks did not close. We did however change our dining around to eat at our hotel (POR). We stayed at EPCOT until the rain got really bad and then (about 2pm) back to our room and stayed there the rest of the night. The pool was closed but I think that was because of the lighting. Winds were strong but I would say no more then 50 with gusts but I don't remember exactly.

 

[AngiTN]

Funny I was down there as well this morning and had a CM who was totally indifferent to the situation. She couldn't make any promises about getting us a room extension anywhere on property if needed and also said that Disney isn't in the handout business and we shouldn't expect any discounts. The last bit really bothered my GF and myself. Especially after hearing during other big storms Disney was quick to make sure people were taken care of, and was giving people 40% off rack rate for an emergency extended stay.

Some of the CM really get a burr under their skirts/pants and act like they are saving Disney from all these freeloaders personally or something. I don't get it. Go to someone else. 99% of the ones there are willing to work with you. If you find the 1% that aren't, ask for someone else. They may just be that 1% that don't want to be there, that do want to be home or somewhere else. Who knows why they act like they do. But there are some there, that's fore sure. It's annoying as heck. (though I want to use a stronger word)

 

[wonder whisper]

I'm at Poly front desk right now taking care of a couple things and was just told by the CM that they have already been told Sunday would be closed for sure and not sure about what after that. I know to take it with a grain of salt. Just wanted to pass along.

Thanks, you are now the second credible source that has reported word of a Sunday closing. Hopefully people already at or planning to arrive soon at WDW are becoming aware of this.

 

[BigMac3001]

Reading through this, I am astounded that anyone who has a choice is choosing to be in Orlando the next few days, ESPECIALLY those flying in between now and Saturday. Although no one knows for sure what Irma's path will be, odds are high that Sunday evening through Monday evening will see Cat 3 hurricane weather there. Not something to take lightly... if you CHOOSE to be there, be prepared for transportation disruptions. Know that attractions, dining venues, housekeeping, resort facilities, events like the Halloween party may be compromised. Cast members may be spread thin and not able to provide as much magic as you expect. Know that the whole state of Florida is under a lot of stress and catering to visitors comes second to public safety. Your grocery orders may not be delivered, your dining reservations may be cancelled, and your flights in and out may be chaotic, cancelled, and overbooked for days after the event.

If you CHOOSE to be there, please be considerate and compassionate to the cast members you encounter, and understanding of any changes to schedules and your plans. If you are confined to your resort room for a couple days with no power or your dining reservations are cancelled or attractions closed after the storm, don't consider this a Disney fail.

No arguement here. Just rolling the dice.

 

[BigMac3001]

Thanks, you are now the second credible source that has reported the Sunday closing. Hopefully people already at or planning to arrive soon at WDW are becoming aware of this.

Hearsay is not credible.

 

[TinkerBelle_325]

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:
This thread will be used only as discussion on impacts from this storm (Irma) on WDW.
As of right now the storm is expected to impact Central Florida as a Cat 3 on Sunday night into Monday.
Sustained winds forecasted for the WDW area are anywhere between 65mph to about 120mph
People that are not familiar with hurricanes need to know that these storms wobble and change trajectory but as we get closer to land fall the forecast will be much more reliable
I will continue to update this page and this newly formed page https://www.disboards.com/threads/h...d-info-wdw-theme-parks-open-mco-open.3632370/ with confirmed information and cite sources
Please visit local and government websites for confirmed information.
Posters that continue to post snarky/sarcastic/panicky responses will have their post deleted and points might be given

ALL IN ALL WE ARE HERE TO HELP PEOPLE PLAN FOR THEIR TRIP. THIS IS A SCARY SITUATION FOR MANY, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE THAT HAVE NEVER GONE THROUGH A STORM OF THIS NATURE. LETS NOT INSTILL MORE FEAR AND JUST RELY ON FACTS
Thank You

Thank you

On the NHS - it has move slightly east. Not west.

I noticed this on the 11am update from the National Hurricane Centre as well. They are now predicting that the eye will just graze the coast. But of course they still advise that the winds expand far in either direction from the track! They've also issued watches for south Florida, the Florida Keys, Lake Okeechobee, and Florida Bay. They've noted that additional hurricane watches expanding northward from those points could be issued later today.

 

[Belle1962]

If you will be on the move-Plan to shelter in place-whether it is an airport or a hotel. Hurricanes are very fickle and can make course changes at any time. While we can give a very good, science based estimate of where they will go, it is still just that--a very good but still best guess. If you are driving, keep in mind that FL might turn some southbound lanes on major interstates to Northbound lanes in the event of a mass evacuation. If you are driving, consider stopping somewhere along your route for the night. It puts you closer to Disney in the morning. But keep in mind-evacuees are booking hotels close to Florida in both GA and SC. Here in GA even Atlanta hotels are filling. Keep an ear out/google weather reports along your route. Even areas not in the direct path may experience rain.

My best advice (from experience): 1) if you are on the border about whether to go or not go, call and see if you can add/buy travel insurance. 2) keep an eye on your airline policy for rebooking 3) switch to a deluxe resort/DVC for 1 or 2 nights. Make reservations at their onsite restaurants. While they might not offer a full menu it beats small sandwich, boxed meal they had last time. It also means you do not have to go outside to reach food courts or restaurants. 4) I believe Disney does not allow for any wiggle room UNLESS there is a specific warning for Orlando. 5) If you are still traveling-pack as if you will be sheltering in place. 6) Bring indoor activities for the kids. 7) Do not plan on hitting any grocery store/Wal-Mart when you arrive unless absolutely necessary. The lines will be hours long (if they even have any stock left).

Keep calm--your kids will be taking their cues from you.

 

[My2Pixies]

Anyone know how the grocery stores are doing in the Orlando area? Even if Irma bypasses Florida and goes out east into the Atlantic (as I think we want as little landfall as possible), I assume grocery stores might be stripped of goods.

We are supposed to arrive on the 17th and had a case of water in our Garden Grocer delivery... maybe Garden Grocer won't have resources to fulfill our order. Perhaps we should pack granola bars in our luggage (in case Disney is fine, but areas surrounding are out of stock?).

The news is only showing Miami shelves being empty on TV. Right now, we are hoping this all goes smoother than expected and our trip won't have to be cancelled.

My friend is an Assistant Manager at a Walmart in Sanford and she said the shelves are bare.

 

[JJIRmom]

My trip was originally planned for 10th-17th with us driving down & leaving tomorrow night. After many many hours on the phone yesterday I was able to reschedule for the 14th-21st they still honored the free dining I had. I will say the first lady I spoke with on the phone said there was no available rooms at all for any of the value resorts. I called back a bit later & spoke with a different person who said they do have rooms but he needed to transfer me to guest services to apply free dining.

 

[HarperLeigh]

Reading through this, I am astounded that anyone who has a choice is choosing to be in Orlando the next few days, ESPECIALLY those flying in between now and Saturday. Although no one knows for sure what Irma's path will be, odds are high that Sunday evening through Monday evening will see Cat 3 hurricane weather there. Not something to take lightly... if you CHOOSE to be there, be prepared for transportation disruptions. Know that attractions, dining venues, housekeeping, resort facilities, events like the Halloween party may be compromised. Cast members may be spread thin and not able to provide as much magic as you expect. Know that the whole state of Florida is under a lot of stress and catering to visitors comes second to public safety. Your grocery orders may not be delivered, your dining reservations may be cancelled, and your flights in and out may be chaotic, cancelled, and overbooked for days after the event.

If you CHOOSE to be there, please be considerate and compassionate to the cast members you encounter, and understanding of any changes to schedules and your plans. If you are confined to your resort room for a couple days with no power or your dining reservations are cancelled or attractions closed after the storm, don't consider this a Disney fail.

This can't be stressed enough. Visitors are not and should not, be a priority.