Hurricane Milton recently swept through Central Florida, leaving its mark on Walt Disney World. This includes Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort which is home to the DVC resort, Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. This article delves into the damage sustained by the resort and offers insights for Disney Vacation Club members and guests planning their visits.
Extent of the Damage
The high winds of Hurricane Milton caused significant damage to the roofs of the Aotearoa and Tuvalu buildings at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The powerful gusts peeled back sections of the roofing, exposing the interiors to rain and resulting in water damage. As a precaution, guests were evacuated, and affected areas have been cordoned off while repairs are underway.
Safety Measures and Response
In response to the damage, Disney has taken swift action to ensure guest safety and minimize disruption. Temporary closures of the impacted buildings allow for repairs and water damage mitigation. Visitors can expect to see fans and drying equipment in place as part of the recovery efforts.
Weather Conditions During the Storm
Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 storm, with the most severe wind impacts occurring in the early morning hours. The storm’s trajectory brought it within 20-25 miles south of Walt Disney World, resulting in peak wind gusts of 70 mph recorded near the resort. Rainfall totals over the storm’s duration ranged from 6 to 13 inches, contributing to the challenges faced by maintenance crews.
Minimal Impact on New Developments
Fortunately, the new Disney Vacation Club Island Tower currently under construction at the Polynesian Resort did not sustain any damage. This area remains unaffected by the storm, allowing construction to continue as planned.
Conclusion
As recovery efforts continue at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, guests and Disney Vacation Club members can rest assured that safety remains a top priority. While the storm caused notable damage, the swift response and ongoing repairs aim to restore the resort to its full splendor.
Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog for further updates on DVC resorts and much more!
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
