Some FL Attractions Close As Hurricane Helene Approaches

FLORIDA — Some Florida theme parks and attractions are closing amid forecasts Hurricane Helene could become a life-threatening storm for Florida and the Southeast.

The National Hurricane Center at its 10 a.m. update reported Helene had become a hurricane that could generate life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds and flooding in parts of the southeastern region.

Patch is compiling a list of closures as they are reported.

The Florida Aquarium

Florida Aquarium staff said the Tampa attraction is closed Thursday but plans to reopen at 9:30 a.m. Friday, operating on normal hours.

"Since the weekend, hundreds of staff and volunteers have been working nearly around the clock securing the property, both the Downtown Tampa location and the Apollo Beach conservation campus," park staff said in a news release.

Some animals have been relocated to higher temporary habitats, tents and other objects that could blow around have been taken down and food, oxygen and medical supplies have been prepared for animals, park staff said.

About two dozen engineers and animal care staff workers will ride out the storm at the aquarium to tend to the animals, monitor life support systems, manage generators and assess damage.

Anyone who bought a ticket for Thursday can reschedule their visit by emailing the aquarium or calling (813) 273-4000.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

After closing at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Clearwater Marine Aquarium will remain closed Thursday, aquarium staff said.

"CMA teams are diligently preparing the building to protect resident animals from the storm, as well as to protect the facility from tidal flooding, storm surge and winds. A hurricane ride-out team is in place," staff said.

It is unknown if the aquarium will reopen Friday.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Volcano Bay will be closed Thursday with resort staff saying the attraction could reopen Friday and operate under normal hours.

Resort staff said Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Halloween Horror Nights and Universal Orlando hotels are remaining operational as staff monitors conditions.

Walt Disney World

Normal operations continued Wednesday at Walt Disney World, but park staff said some experiences will be canceled or unavailable Thursday.

Specifically, the Typhoon Lagoon water park will be closed Thursday. This includes Beachcomber Shack and Typhoon Lagoon umbrella rentals.

Blizzard Beach water park is already closed for the season, park staff said.

Walt Disney will close on Thursday the Savor the Savanna, Up Close with Rhinos, Walking with Giants and Wild Africa Trek tours and Enchanting Extras Collection experiences.

Mini golf courses will also close on Thursday, including Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf and Winter Summerland Miniature Golf.

Disney Resort hotel pools will operate or close under normal conditions, park staff said.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens will close Thursday, and it is unknown when the park will reopen.

The attraction has a Weather-or-Not Assurance program for guests to see weather protocol for Busch Gardens.

Legoland Florida

The Legoland resort in Winter Haven said park operations and hours are continuing as normal Wednesday afternoon. "We are closely monitoring the weather. Please check back for updates."

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

Mote Aquarium in Sarasota and Mote's Marine Science Education and Outreach Center on Anna Maria City Pier are closed to the public starting Wednesday until further notice.