What's happened
As Hurricane Milton impacted Central Florida, Disney World closed its parks early, leaving employees feeling unsafe and under-informed. Workers reported poor communication and were expected to remain on-site during the storm, raising concerns about their safety. The parks have since reopened, but the storm's effects linger for both staff and tourists.
What's behind the headline?
Employee Safety Concerns
- Workers reported feeling unsafe during the storm.
- Poor communication from management left employees uncertain about their responsibilities.
Impact on Tourism
- Disney World typically attracts millions of visitors, especially in October.
- The storm's timing disrupted planned vacations for many families.
Financial Implications
- Goldman Sachs estimated potential losses of up to $200 million for Disney's parks division.
- The closures could affect local businesses reliant on tourist traffic.
Future Considerations
- Disney may need to reassess its emergency protocols for employee safety.
- The incident could influence public perception of Disney's commitment to worker welfare.
What the papers say
According to Business Insider, employees expressed disappointment with Disney's handling of scheduling and safety during Hurricane Milton, stating they felt 'like they were flying blind.' The NY Post reported that cast members were expected to remain on-site even as conditions worsened, with one employee noting, 'I wish the park wouldn’t have opened up for the day at all.' The Independent highlighted that the storm forced the closure of multiple attractions, impacting the vacations of thousands. Disney's spokesperson emphasized their commitment to safety, stating, 'Safety is always our first and most important factor.' However, the contrasting experiences of employees and guests suggest a gap in communication and support during emergencies.
How we got here
Hurricane Milton, initially a Category 5 storm, threatened Orlando's tourism, prompting major theme parks, including Disney World, to close. The storm's approach raised safety concerns for both guests and employees, leading to significant operational disruptions.
Go deeper
- What were the specific safety concerns raised by employees?
- How did the storm impact tourist experiences at Disney World?
- What measures is Disney taking to improve communication during emergencies?
Common question
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