Check Out the Universal Orlando Operational Updates as Hurricane Helene Approaches
Hurricane Helene strengthened overnight in the Gulf of Mexico and is rapidly intensifying into a major hurricane. Helene is expected to bring intense conditions to Florida, including wind, rain, and potential tornadoes.
Fox 35 Orlando
As of this morning, the NHC reported that Hurricane Helene had grown into a category two hurricane with 100 mph winds about 320 miles south of Tampa and 365 miles south of Apalachicola. It is expected to turn into a category 4 hurricane today.
While the center does not directly pass over Central Florida, the area will still be impacted. All central Florida schools have canceled classes for Thursday, and the Sun Rail has also shut down.
Orlando Sentinel
Orange County and Universal Orlando are currently under tropical storm warnings, and a tornado watch is also in effect.
Universal Orlando Operational Update
Due to Hurricane Helene approaching and its impacts, Universal Orlando Resort is making the following operational changes for Thursday, Sept. 26:
- Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida is canceled.
- Universal Volcano Bay is closed.
- Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will close at their regularly scheduled times – with Universal Studios closing at 5 p.m. and Islands of Adventure closing at 8 p.m.
- Universal CityWalk will close early at 8 p.m.
- Our hotels remain operational as they focus on taking care of our guests.
Image: Universal Studios
The theme park anticipates a full reopening of the resort, including Halloween Horror Nights on Friday, Sept. 27.
Severe Weather Policies
Guests with a Halloween Horror Nights single-night-dated ticket for Thursday, Sept. 26, will be automatically honored for a single-night use through Sunday, Sept. 29.
Photo: Universal
All other HHN ticket questions can be directed to the Guest Contact Center team by calling 800-711-0080 for assistance.
Universal Orlando Resort unfortunately can’t make guarantees about the weather and has the following weather policy in place:
In the event that a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center or a state of emergency is declared for the Orlando area or in your place of residence, within seven days of your arrival, you can contact our team in advance to reschedule or cancel your Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations Package, hotel room only accommodations and Universal Orlando theme park tickets booked directly with Universal Orlando, without any cancellation or change fees imposed. If you have purchased airline tickets as part of your Universal Parks and Resorts Vacations package, you may still be subject to cancellation and change fees assessed by those airlines.
Stay Tuned
There is a lot of weather-related Universal news coming fast. The best way to stay updated and ensure a safe experience?
Photo:Universal Orlando Resort
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Feature Photo: Orlando Vacations
