Introduction

As Hurricane Milton barrels towards central Florida, a few intrepid tourists made their way to Walt Disney World on Wednesday morning, aiming to squeeze in a bit of magical fun before the impending storm hit. Despite the ominous forecasts predicting severe weather, families were seen enjoying the rides and sights at the Magic Kingdom, albeit in significantly lower numbers than usual.

Tourists' Experience

Dr. Craig Chavis, a chiropractor visiting from Maryland, shared on social media, “It’s about to get interesting,” alongside photos of his drenched family reveling in the park's atmosphere. “But the park was almost empty today,” he noted, capturing the unusual scenario of a typically bustling Disney park on the brink of a natural disaster.

Theme Parks' Response

Both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios announced they were closely monitoring the hurricane's trajectory, leading to the decision to stay open for a half-day before closing their gates at 1 p.m. Amidst the joyful chaos, not all were pleased with the choice to remain operational. Many nearby restaurants, shops, and gas stations also stayed open, much to the dismay of their anxious employees.

Employees' Concerns

Employing a bittersweet perspective, Amy Chavers, a waitress at a local family restaurant, reflected on the situation. “They got their precious few hours of fun in,” she said, contrasting the festive scenes with her own worries. “Good for them. Meanwhile, I don’t know what’s happening at home with my kids, and the rains are just getting worse.”

The concerns of theme park employees echoed those sentiments. One shop worker at the Magic Kingdom expressed, "I really didn’t want to go to work today. Everyone who worked today has a home and a life outside work, and we don’t know if it’s going to be washed away. But we had to be cheerful and upbeat anyway. It’s sort of f–ked up."

Safety Warnings

As the storm threatens potentially severe flooding and wind damage, officials warn Florida residents about the risks of riding out the storm at home. Tampa's mayor notably cautioned, “That’s a coffin you’re in,” urging people to prioritize safety above all else.

Closure Plans

With the parks shuttered and lingering uncertainty in the air, essential employees were retained to manage the situation, showcasing the dedication of those who work behind the scenes in such high-stakes times. Disney and Universal Studios have announced plans to remain closed on Thursday but are expected to reopen by Friday, provided Hurricane Milton passes through without further incident.

Conclusion

Stay tuned as Hurricane Milton's aftermath unfolds, bringing both a sense of anxiety and resilience to the community in these troubled times.