Tropical Storm Milton has strengthened in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and is expected to become a major hurricane moving toward the west coast of Florida.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) predicts the storm will make landfall by midweek, bringing dangerous storm surges, heavy rains and strong winds to Central Florida, including the Walt Disney World Resort area.

A state of emergency has been declared for several Florida counties, including Orange and Osceola, home to Walt Disney World. This declaration from the Governor of Florida ensures that local authorities can mobilize resources, prepare for evacuations and activate emergency plans to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Other counties under the state of emergency include Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami – Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia.

Major hurricane forecast

Currently, Tropical Storm Milton has sustained winds of 40 miles per hour, but is expected to rapidly intensify. Favorable conditions in the Gulf of Mexico, such as low wind shear and warm waters, will likely make Milton a major Category 3 hurricane with winds in excess of 115 mph as it approaches the Florida coast. The storm is expected to strengthen into a hurricane within the next 36 hours.

Projected path and timing

Milton's path has shifted slightly northward, with the storm expected to accelerate east-northeast. The center of the storm is expected to reach the west coast of Florida late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning. However, severe weather – including strong winds, heavy rains and flooding – will likely be felt across Central Florida long before the center of the storm makes landfall.

Impact on Walt Disney World and Central Florida

The Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida is preparing for potentially severe impacts from Hurricane Milton, including strong winds, heavy rainfall and the possibility of localized flooding. Visitors should expect park closures or operational changes, particularly at outdoor attractions.

Guide to Walt Disney World's Hurricane Cancellation and Refund Policy