We drove in a day or 2 after a hurricane, I believe it was Irma. There were no gas stations open, and traffic was at a standstill from all the people driving back in that evacuated. Push it back. It was scary to be stuck in traffic with hardly any gas stations open
Keep in mind possible flooding, clearing debris, and long gas lines along the way.
. But the important thing to remember is that people who are impacted by this storm (even if the impact may seem relatively small compared to others) need compassion right now. Or at the very least, they need people to just not react if possible. If you've been impacted by Ian at all, I'm sorry. And if you're in the path of the storm, my thoughts are with you hard right now. Please stay safe.
Outbuildings such as the WL cabins and the Poly bungalows are certainly more apt to sustain damage than the main buildings, but I think there's a bigger problem than people in the outbuildings wanting to wander around. Those people have to go somewhere for food and other services. Yes, they might have food in the fridge, but what if they run out? Or what if they get cabin fever? The main buildings enable people to sleep, eat, and even be entertained all in one secure building. Also, CMs then don't have to go outside to the outbuildings to check on guests or take supplies to them. So it's better for guests and for CMs to have everyone in the main building.
There are a lot of trees around those cabins. I was at the Boardwalk during Irma, and when it was safe to leave the hotel, we took a walk to the other Epcot resorts to see the damage. We saw trees that were knocked over with the roots pulled from the ground. A large tree falling on those cabins with lead to a very dangerous situation for the family inside.
They often do, but last I knew WDW wasn't accepting new reservations for anyone until they get everyone already onsite situated. Unless they've opened evacuation bookings in the past few hours.
You may, emphasize may, take a look at diverting at Talahassee and driving down US 19 along west coast. Looks that part of state will miss damage. GasBuddy should help locating gasoline.
US19 is super close to the water in some places. If Citrus County is still showing storm surge danger, 19 might be flooded approaching Crystal River.
Yes, but that part of the state shows to have minimal flooding, and by Friday should be completely clear of the storm. It is a 4 lane divided highway with stoplights and cross traffic. A traveler will need to use Waze or Google Maps to determine real-time traffic patterns. Gasbuddy is invaluable in locating gasoline. A fill-up in Tallahassee should get you all the way to WDW, about 250 miles or so.
Yes sadly hurricanes affecting WDW brings out the worst and best in people. We have been there for several and have seen some really hateful, guest behavior toward the cast members.
