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Hurricane Idalia made landfall early Wednesday morning as a powerful and destructive Category 3 hurricane. The storm slammed Florida’s Big Bend coast with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour and catastrophic flooding. Hurricane Idalia is now moving inland after churning its way into Florida’s Big Bend on Wednesday morning as an extremely dangerous storm with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour. As the National Hurricane Center warned that catastrophic storm surges were occurring along the coast, it is feared that many areas could suffer life-threatening flooding of up to 16 feet of water Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach at 8 a.m as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. As the storm churned through its way through the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia rapidly intensified to a Category 4 hurricane overnight before being downgraded as it reached Florida’s west coast. Fortunately here in Central Florida we can now breathe a sigh of relief, but sadly for others, the storm has left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake, with at least two deaths reported amid Hurricane Idalia's trek across the state. Along the coastline, homes were underwater up to their rooflines and some structures, boats and docks were being swept away by the power of the storm surge. Away from the coast, authories warned that high levels of rainfall could increase the chance of inland flooding. While Central Florida dodged the worst effects of Idalia, outer bands of the storm brought heavy rain. A tornado watch was issued for all of Central Florid through 3 p.m. today, but the watch was canceled just before noon. In Tampa, there is major flooding including Tampa's iconic waterfront Bayshore Blvd. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently said the 2023 hurricane season would be far busier than initially forecast, partly because of extremely warm ocean temperatures. The season runs through Nov. 30, with August and September typically the peak. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the popular steel roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida allows riders to choose their own song while riding, with a choice of 30 songs... but not anymore. Universal Orlando Resort has revealed that they have changed the song selection process for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, with the choices of 30 songs reduced to only 5. Previously, the coaster offered five different genre choices, with six songs for guests to choose from in each genre. Now there is only 1 song per genre. The 5 tracks are all brand new, with 1 track representing each genre of Rock, Pop/Disco, Country, Rap/Hip Hop, and Club/Electronica. The new song choices are: Classic Rock/Metal Welcome to the Black Parade by My Chemical Romance Pop/Disco Waterloo by ABBA Country Man! I Feel Like a Woman! by Shania Twain Rap/Hip-Hop Humble by Kendrick Lamar Club/Electronica Sandstorm by Darude Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is the largest X-Coaster ever built by German manufacturer Maurer Söhne. The coaster officially debuted on August 19, 2009, featuring on-ride music LED lighting, and on-ride photos and videos captured from cameras mounted in each passenger row. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

The Cake Bake Shop which is coming to Disney's BoardWalk was set to open this year, but looks like it could be delayed. The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is currently under construction in the space that was previously home to the ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk. Since being first announced by Walt Disney World in August 2022, the timeline for the new restaurant and cafe was given as 2023. The official Cake Bake Shop website also proclaimed that the location would open this year. Now the 2023 opening date has been removed from the website, replaced simply with “coming soon.” Yet another indication that the timeline has been pushed back is the fact that the building is still under construction Upon opening, this sweet spot will feature both savory and sweet items on its menu, and of course showcase the incredible cakes that Gwendolyn and her team have created, for brunch, lunch, and dinner. In addition to the regular menu, you’ll also be able to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea service, plus the offerings don’t stop there. Not only, will there be table-service offerings, but also a quick-service bakery for you to pick up these delicious delights on-the-go. There aren’t just cakes here. The restaurant and bakery will serve cookies, French macarons, brownies, dessert bars, pies, and cheesecakes in addition to the handmade cakes. The whimsical atmosphere of The Cake Bake Shop and its goodies are sure to be a charming addition to the BoardWalk. The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is a very popular Central Indiana restaurant and bakery with locations in Broad Ripple and Carmel. Cake Bake Shop owner Gwendolyn Rogers made the announcement that she is opening a new location in the most magical place on earth on The Cake Bake Shop's Instagram account. "I am so excited to announce that I will be opening my next Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk in Walt Disney World Resort." The Carmel location which the new BoardWalk restaurant is believed to be based on, is a magical and whimsical space which is sure to become a must visit spot in Walt Disney World. When you arrive you walk through French doors, sparkling chandeliers over head, antiqued mirrors, French inspired furniture, beautiful seasonal decorations, gorgeous cakes on French porcelain platters topped with glass domes. Gwendolyn's shops offer the most incredible experience from ‘The Best Quiche You Will Ever Have’ to homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, even a true French Croque Monsieur. Behind the kitchen window you can see the master bakers gently sieving non-bromated flours from Vermont, there are large pots of French & Belgian Chocolate melting on the stove, cakes baking in the ovens and decorators frosting the most exquisite cakes. We cannot wait for this new restaurant to open in Walt Disney World, and we're sure it's going to quickly become a must visit location, not only for the visitors to the resort, but for us too! For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site.

The brand new trail link between the new Orlando station at Orlando International Airport and various stops in South Florida including Miami has been delayed again. Passengers are going to have to wait awhile longer for the brand new rail passenger service between Central and South Florida. Brightline was set to launch the brand new service on September 1, but announced on August 8 that they were delaying the opening of the new transport link until September 7 due to delays with the final stages of certification and crew testing. Now today, Wednesday, August 30, the inaugural service has been delayed again.with Brightline announcing that they will not be launching service to or from Orlando from Sept. 7 – 21 and have already started engaging passengers whose travel has been impacted. Brightline commented on a social media post, "We’re eager to launch service and are close to identifying a start date for Brightline Orlando Station. We’ve added a few more days to our work schedule to complete the final stages of certification and testing." Passengers are asked to visit the Help Desk on the Brightline website with questions or to connect with them. When the service does launch, it will include 16 daily round trips with hourly departures between Miami and Orlando, with the non-stop trains having a run time between Miami and Orlando of two hours and 59 minutes. Regular service from Orlando to Miami will stop at all Brightline stations including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Aventura. Brightline offer two offers two classes of service on the new service, SMART and PREMIUM . Brightline’s PREMIUM service provides complimentary drinks and snacks in a dedicated lounge and train coach. One-way SMART fares start at $79 and one-way PREMIUM fares are priced from $149. Brand new Brightline trains offer travellers spacious leather seats with plenty of legroom, access to complimentary, high-speed wifi, charging ports at every seat and multiple food and beverage stations onboard. Guests will also find a designated place for bikes and ample room throughout coaches for carry-on storage. With Brightline’s signature yellow and spacious lounges, the new Orlando station at Orlando International Airport is the perfect backdrop for a new era of passenger rail that will connect Central and South Florida. The new station is meticulously designed and built through the lens of today’s modern traveler. The 37,350 square foot station is located in Orlando International Airport’s new 80,000 sq. ft. Train Station facility adjacent to Terminal C. The Train Station connects directly to the airport’s Parking Garage C, which will have more than 350 parking spaces branded for Brightline guests. The Train Station provides direct access to the other airport terminals A and B via the airport Terminal Link (automated people mover) in under five minutes. Transportation and mobility options at the Orlando Station include Brightline’s first and last-mile service, Brightline+, which will cater to the unique needs of the Orlando visitor. The guest journey begins at the main entrance, located off the airport’s expansive two-story glass atrium. Once inside the station, passengers can purchase tickets from guest services or one of several self-service kiosks, and check luggage before proceeding through touchless turnstiles into the security screening tunnel. Once through the security tunnel, guests are greeted by an expansive two-story station space, featuring world-class amenities Brightline is known for, including: Mary Mary Bar, serving hand-crafted cocktails and light bites. The signature sit-down bar is positioned at the far end of the station with a stunning panoramic view overlooking the train platforms where guests can leisurely watch as trains arrive and depart. Above the Mary Mary bar is an iconic, split-flap message board that can rotate alphanumeric text and/or graphics to form a message. A nostalgic nod to historic train stations, the split-flap will provide updated train schedules, boarding times, news of the day and other announcements complete with sounds reminiscent of the first passenger train stations in America. MRKT PLACE is a retail experience with convenient in-station shopping for last-minute gifts, sundries and refreshments. Brightline offers two classes of service, SMART and PREMIUM. Brightline’s PREMIUM service includes complimentary meals, snacks and beverages, a dedicated first class lounge, free checked luggage, priority boarding and a dedicated coach. Throughout the station, all guests will have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations at every seat, 87 big screen televisions and a BrightKids children’s play area located in the SMART lounge. Passengers will access trains by escalator or elevator to first level platforms. These platforms are 1,000 feet long and can accommodate a train with up to 10 coaches and two locomotives. Additional details of Brightline’s opening schedule include: Weekdays Hourly southbound departures from Orlando to Miami starting at 5:00 a.m. until 8:50 p.m. First southbound train from Orlando arrives in Miami at 8:30 a.m. Hourly northbound departures from Miami to Orlando starting at 6:50 a.m. until 9:45 p.m. First northbound train from Miami arrives in Orlando at 10:15 a.m. Weekends Hourly southbound departures from Orlando to Miami starting at 5:00 a.m. until 8:50 p.m. First southbound train from Orlando arrives in Miami at 8:30 a.m. Hourly northbound departures from Miami to Orlando starting at 5:45 a.m. until 9:45 p.m. First northbound train from Miami arrives in Orlando at 9:15 a.m. Additional dedicated trains will continue to serve commuters and the South Florida region between Miami and West Palm Beach with early morning departures at 5:00 a.m. from West Palm Beach and late night departures until 12:45 a.m. out of Miami. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site.

As squall lines from Hurricane Idalia brings heavy downpours to Central Florida we are still seeing closures and cancelations. Due to weather conditions related to Hurricane Idalia, LEGOLAND Florida has announced that LEGOLAND Water Park will now remain closed today, Wednesday, August 30. LEGOLAND Theme Park and Peppa Pig Theme Park are open as planned, but the resort is advising guests that they may experience limited park operations due to the weather conditions. Learn more about the resorts hurricane policy at LEGOLAND.com/hurricane. Meanwhile at Old Town in Kissimmee, they have announced that due to the current weather conditions they have made the decision to cancel this week's Wednesday Car Show. Hurricane Idalia is now moving inland after churning its way into Florida’s Big Bend on Wednesday morning as an extremely dangerous storm with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour. As the National Hurricane Center warned that catastrophic storm surges were occurring along the coast, it is feared that many areas could suffer life-threatening flooding of up to 16 feet of water Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach at 8 a.m as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. As the storm churned through its way through the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia rapidly intensified to a Category 4 hurricane overnight before being downgraded as it reached Florida’s west coast. Fortunately here in Central Florida we can now breathe a sigh of relief, but sadly for others, the storm has left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake, with at least two deaths reported amid Hurricane Idalia's trek across the state. Along the coastline, homes were underwater up to their rooflines and some structures, boats and docks were being swept away by the power of the storm surge. Away from the coast, authories warned that high levels of rainfall could increase the chance of inland flooding. While Central Florida dodged the worst effects of Idalia, outer bands of the storm brought heavy rain. A tornado watch was issued for all of Central Florid through 3 p.m. today, but the watch was canceled just before noon. In Tampa, there is major flooding including Tampa's iconic waterfront Bayshore Blvd. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently said the 2023 hurricane season would be far busier than initially forecast, partly because of extremely warm ocean temperatures. The season runs through Nov. 30, with August and September typically the peak. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

As we get ever closer to this years Halloween Horror nights, Universal Orlando have revealed a first look inside this years Tribute Store. Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) at Universal Orlando Resort kicks off this Friday, September 1, and the resort have revealed a first look at this years Tribute Store! Each year Universal Orlando debuts a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store, an elaborately themed shopping experience to purchase the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise and treats, This years all-new Tribute Store will see guests enter a mysterious NYC Comic Book Shop and experience the “Tribute to Terror” by stepping into the pages of this original, terrifying, horror comic book. This years Tribute Store will open for Halloween Horror Nights 32 this Friday, September 1 with Annual Passholders getting a first look, Wednesday August 30, 2023. Inside the Tribute Store, you will see the black-and-white office of Detective Boris Shuster, who is also advertised in the windows outside the store. You may remember Detective Shuster was featured in Case Files Unearthed: Legendary Truth, a house at Halloween Horror Nights 30! If you plan to visit the Tribute Store it can get busy, so if possible visit during regular theme park hours when it is also open, This allows you to save time and spend more time in the houses and scare zones. Yesterday, Universal Orlando revealed this years park guide to HHN 32. Halloween Horror Nights 32 will feature 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones and live entertainment. All new terrifying houses this year including “The Exorcist: Believer,” inspired by the new Universal Pictures film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” based on the popular USA & SYFY series, and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked,” inspired by Universal’s legacy of iconic cinematic monsters. Haunted Houses A. Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings B. The Exorcist: Believer C. Stranger Things D. Dueling Dragons: Choose Thy Fate E. YETI: Campground Kills F. Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count G. Dr. Oddfellow’s Twisted Origins H. The Darkest Deal I. The Last of Us J. Universal Monsters: Unmasked Scare Zones K. Dr. Oddfellow’s Collection of Horrors L. Vamp ’69: Summer of Blood M. Shipyard 32: Horrors Unhinged N. Jungle of Doom: Expedition Horror O. Dark Zodiac Live Entertainment P. Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream Rides & Attractions 1. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit 2. Transformers: The Ride-3D 3. Revenge of the Mummy 4. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts 5. Men in Black: Alien Attack DE. Death Eaters Encounter (YES!!) Here’s what’s lingering in the fog at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2023: HAUNTED HOUSES The Exorcist: Believer An Evil Reawakened Two missing girls have been found with no memory of what happened to them. But wherever they went, the ultimate evil has returned with them. Enter the most terrifying scenes from the new Blumhouse film. Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count Chucky’s Back for Even More Carnage Chucky, the serial killer doll, is back for a new gorefest! He’s hijacked his own haunted house with all kinds of bloody hijinks. You and your friends must try to survive his ultimate kill count. Stranger Things 4 Try to Escape the Curse of Vecna You’ll need your squad to resist Vecna’s gruesome curse. Like Eleven, now’s your chance to stop him once and for all as you take on the scariest season of Stranger Things yet. The Last of Us Step Into the World of The Last of Us You and your squad will encounter the haunting and overgrown world of the video game in a brand-new, terrifying way. Stay silent if you want to survive a multitude of Clickers, Hunters and more. Universal Monsters: Unmasked Four Universal Monsters. One New Nightmare. Descend into the Paris Catacombs, where you and your squad will face a new horde of Monsters: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the Phantom of the Opera, the Hunchback of Notre Dame and the Invisible Man. Dr. Oddfellow’s Twisted Origins Your Soul is a Price He’s Willing to Pay You won’t be able to resist going inside Dr. Oddfellow’s menacing menagerie of twisted oddities. But the price for you and your friends is steep: the cost of your souls to feed his immortal power Dueling Dragons: Choose Thy Fate No Matter Who You Choose, You Lose Two warlocks of great power were turned into dragons after trying to take Merlyn’s spell book. Now you and your friends are caught in their epic battle. You must choose a path and a victor. YETI: Campground Kills Yeti or Not, Here They Come You and your friends are about to venture into a 1950s campground overrun by huge, menacing yetis who rip apart anyone who gets in their way. You must flee to the ranger tower to escape. The Darkest Deal Fame is Fleeting. Fear is Forever. Blues musician Pinestraw Spruce will have to face the music after meeting with The Collector and trading his soul for musical glory. You and your squad learn the terrible price of fame. Bleed for the Blood Moon Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings In a Colonial-era village, moon-worshippers witness a blood moon at their fall festival. They take it as a sign to hunt down any non-followers, including you and your scream squad. SCARE ZONES Dr. Oddfellow’s Collection of Horror Dr. Oddfellow will lure you into Halloween Horror Nights with a promise of immortality. As he lifts the veil on all the horrors to come, you’ll soon realize you may not even survive the night. Dark Zodiac Dr. Oddfellow has entered a dark dimension to harness the power of the Zodiac and live forever. He twists the signs into malevolent beings who foretell your doom. As his star rises, yours falls. Jungle of Doom: Expedition Horror In the 1920s, Dr. Oddfellow ventured deep into the darkest jungle, performing horrific experiments on nature. Now his monstrous creations are running amok and are coming after you. Vamp ’69: Summer of Blood At a 60s music fest in a small New York town, you’ll jam to popular bands with fellow concert-goers until Dr. Oddfellow unleashes vicious vampires on the audience. They’re out for your blood. Shipyard 32: Horrors Unhinged Enter a 1940s San Francisco shipping yard full of mysterious crates and cages bearing Dr. Oddfellow’s symbol. Beware, his nightmarish oddities have now escaped, spreading fear and chaos in their wake. SHOW Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream The show that sparked your darkest dreams has reignited. Let your nightmares burn out of control as the pyro and aerial performers fire you up to the beat of metal and electronica. NEW SPINE-CHILLING EXPERIENCES AND KILLER FOOD Guests can enjoy the all-new disturbingly entertaining show, “Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream,” that features a new dreamer confronting the creature that’s been turning her dreams into nightmares. While shopping the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise and treats in an all-new Tribute Store, guests can enter a mysterious NYC Comic Book Shop and experience the “Tribute to Terror” by stepping into the pages of this original, terrifying, horror comic book. Guests can enjoy a drink at the Red Coconut Club as it will once again transform to the Dead Coconut Club donning a new theme and menu. When guests want to take a bite out of the horror, they can enjoy a monstrous menu of all-new food & beverage items, including Bloody Campground Poutine, El Pastor Torta and Sour Apple Pie Funnel Fries, in addition to returning fan-favorites like Pizza Fries. New this year, Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar will feature themed libations within an ominous nightclub vibe, photo opportunities, and more. For those dying to experience this year’s “killer” food & beverage before the event even opens, Taste of Terror will offer guests an exclusive preview of select items that will be featured at Halloween Horror Nights select nights from August 10 through August 26. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Welcome to our round the clock coverage of Hurricane Idalia. As the storm continues to target Florida we will be bringing you live updates throughout the storm. Welcome to our live coverage of Hurricane Idalia. As we continue to monitor Hurricane Idalia we are providing live updates and the latest information on the storms impacts here in Central Florida. We will be updating this page throughout the storm, stay safe everyone! Hurricane Idalia: LIVE UPDATES NOW ENDED Hurricane Idalia made landfall early Wednesday morning as a powerful and destructive Category 3 hurricane. The storm slammed Florida’s Big Bend coast with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour and catastrophic flooding. Thankfully Central Florida avoided the worst of this devastating hurricane, and we are ending our live coverage for our area. Thank you all for following along with our round the lock live, local coverage here in Orlando. The hurricane season runs through Nov. 30, with August and September typically the peak, if another storm (hopefully not) targets our area we will again provide full coverage here at Gotta Go Orlando. Hurricane Idalia is now moving inland after churning its way into Florida’s Big Bend on Wednesday morning as an extremely dangerous storm with maximum sustained winds of more than 100 miles per hour. As the National Hurricane Center warned that catastrophic storm surges were occurring along the coast, it is feared that many areas could suffer life-threatening flooding of up to 16 feet of water Idalia made landfall near Keaton Beach at 8 a.m as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour. As the storm churned through its way through the Gulf of Mexico, Idalia rapidly intensified to a Category 4 hurricane overnight before being downgraded as it reached Florida’s west coast. Fortunately here in Central Florida we can now breathe a sigh of relief, but sadly for others, the storm has left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake, with at least two deaths reported amid Hurricane Idalia's trek across the state. Along the coastline, homes were underwater up to their rooflines and some structures, boats and docks were being swept away by the power of the storm surge. Away from the coast, authories warned that high levels of rainfall could increase the chance of inland flooding. While Central Florida dodged the worst effects of Idalia, outer bands of the storm brought heavy rain. A tornado watch was issued for all of Central Florid through 3 p.m. today, but the watch was canceled just before noon. In Tampa, there is major flooding including Tampa's iconic waterfront Bayshore Blvd. Hurricane Idalia makes landfall in Florida Wednesday, August 30, 7.50 am Hurricane Idalia has officially made landfall in Florida as a Major Category 3 storm in the Big Bend area near Keaton Beach at 7:45 am. Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center. Idalia made landfall as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph. The storm is expected to weaken after landfall, but is forecast to maintain hurricane status as it moves across Georgia. Hurricane Idalia downgraded to Category 3 Wednesday, August 30, 7.25 am Hurricane Idalia has been downgraded to a Category 3 storm, with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph, with higher gusts. The system is still expected to hit Florida's Big Bend as a major hurricane by around 8 am. Tornado Warning issued for Marion County until 7.30 am Wednesday, August 30, 6.55 am WARNING CANCELLED People in affected areas should take cover in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, avoiding windows. Those in a mobile home or in a vehicle should move to the closest substantial shelter, protecting themselves from flying debris Tornado Warning issued for parts of Polk County Wednesday, August 30, 6.10 am The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for northwestern Highlands, northeastern Hardee and southeastern Polk counties until 7.00 am. Tornado Watch in effect for much of Central Florida Wednesday, August 30, 6.10 am Idalia will make landfall along the Gulf Coast as a Cat 4 hurricane this morning. Locally here in Central Florida gusty squalls and tornadoes will remain a threat today. A Tornado Watch is in effect for Lake, Seminole, Orange, Osceola, Volusia, and Brevard Counties through 3pm Hurricane Idalia now a Category 4 storm Wednesday, August 30, 5.10 am Hurricane Idalia has strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it churns towards Florida's Gulf Coast. The storm is expected to make landfall along the coast of Florida's Big Bend region, where catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds are expected. The hurricane is currently 60 miles west of Cedar Key and about 90 miles south of Tallahassee, with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. Tornado Warning issued for Orange and Osceola counties Wednesday, August 30, 4.05 am A TORNADO WARNING has been issued for Orange and Osceola counties until 4:30 a.m. National Hurricane Center Update Wednesday, August 30, 4.00 am Hurricane Hunter data indicate that Hurricane Idalia is still strengthening. Catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds will begin soon in the Florida Big Bend near where the core of the hurricane makes landfall. The Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay now closed Wednesday, August 30, 3.45 am The Florida Highway Patrol said The Skyway Bridge in the Tampa Bay area is now closed to all traffic as sustained winds are over 50 mph. Idalia is now a Category 3 Hurricane Wednesday, August 30, 2.00 am Idalia is now a Category 3 Major Hurricane. Continued intensification is expected until landfall later this morning. Now is the time to shelter in place. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings that will wake you up through the night. Port Canaveral now closed Wednesday, August 30, 12.45 am The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set hurricane condition "ZULU" for Port Canaveral: Sustained gale force winds are predicted within 12 hours. Port Canaveral is now closed and has ceased all waterside and vessel shoreside Port operations until further notice. Based on current forecasts and storm information, Port Canaveral is not issuing a marina evacuation order for Hurricane Idalia. Vessels berthed at marinas located in Port Canaveral should consult with their marina owner/operator and comply with marina specific requirements and precautions. Idalia forecast to become extremely dangerous Category 4 storm Tuesday, August 29, 11.35 pm Hurricane Idalia is now expected to make landfall in Florida as an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm when it makes landfall early Wednesday, according to the 11 pm advisory from the National Hurricane Center. Idalia is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 110 mph, only 1 mph shy of being a Category 3 storm. Idalia is expected to gain sustained winds of 115 mph and intensify into a Category 3 hurricane overnight. The NHC warn that Florida's Big Bend will see the most impactful storm surge, of 10 to 15 feet. Locally here in Central Florida, tornadoes are a possibility, with a Tornado Watch currently in effect for Lake County through 6 am. The main threats for east central FL will be winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts in excess of 45 mph, especially in the strongest squalls, with 1-3” of rainfall, with locally higher amounts. Tornado watch is now in effect for Lake County Tuesday, August 29, 11.20 pm A tornado watch is now in effect for more than 7 million people across central and western Florida, including Lake County here in Central Florida until 6:00 am, Wednesday. Publix closing many stores early Tuesday, August 29, 7.35 pm Publix have adjusted hours for 181 Florida stores in preparation for Hurricane Idalia. The stores with modified hours are in locations that are expected to be impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Stores along the west coast near Tampa and Sarasota are scheduled to close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, and reopen on Wednesday at 9 a.m. For a list of Publix locations and hours, visit the store’s website here. Winn-Dixie closes stores including Orlando Tuesday, August 29, 7.40 pm Winn-Dixie have closed dozens of its grocery stores in Florida, including Orlando. For a full list of closures and locations, visit the stores website here. SeaWorld Orlando to open late on Wednesday Tuesday, August 29, 7.15 pm SeaWorld Orlando has announced operational updates for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30. SeaWorld Orlando will open at noon on Wednesday, August 30. Aquatica Orlando will be closed on Wednesday, August 30, with normal operations expected to resume on Thursday, August 31. All date-intended tickets for closure days have been extended through August 31, 2024 and requires no action to be taken. Discovery Cove will operate normal hours Tuesday, August 29, and will be closed Wednesday, August 30. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, August 31 Uber will provide free rides to/from FL evacuation centers Tuesday, August 29, 6.50 pm Uber is offering free round-trip rides to and from evacuation centers in Florida for those impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Passengers can use the code "Idalia relief" in the Uber app to claim rides. The offer has a value of up to $35. Hurricane Idalia strengthens to Category 2 Tuesday, August 29, 5.30 pm In the 5 pm update from the National Hurricane Center,, Idalia has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with maximum winds of 100 mph as it lashes Florida ahead of a potentially catastrophic landfall on the state's west coast. Little change to Idalia's track with the latest update. Threats to east central Florida remain the same. Conditions will start to deteriorate this afternoon, so be sure to have multiple ways of receiving weather alerts! Strong to damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes are two of the main threats across east central Florida tonight into Wednesday. Ensure you and everyone in your family knows where to go within your residence to stay safe as Idalia moves across Florida today into Wednesday. Walt Disney World closing water park & miniature golf Tuesday, August 29, 5.20 pm Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, plus Winter Summerland Miniature Golf and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf will be closed on August 30. LEGOLAND Florida to remain open Tuesday, August 29, 5.10 pm LEGOLAND Florida Resort will remain open tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/30. While the parks and hotels will be open, guests may experience limited park operations due to weather conditions. Learn more at http://LEGOLAND.com/hurricane. Peppa Pig Theme Park to open Wednesday Tuesday, August 29, 5.05 pm Peppa Pig Theme Park will remain open tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/30. While our Resort will be open, guests may experience limited park operations due to weather conditions. Learn more at http://PeppaPigThemePark.com/hurricane. Leu Gardens to close Wednesday Tuesday, August 29, 4.55 pm For the safety and security of visitors and staff, Harry P. Leu Gardens will be CLOSED on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. They hope to resume normal operating hours on Thursday, August 31, 2023, pending a full inspection of the Gardens following the storm. Universal Orlando Update Tuesday, August 29, 4.35 pm Universal Orlando Resort theme parks including Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay are planning to open and operate as normal at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 30. However, they will not offer Early Park Admission benefit for on-site hotel guests, select Annual Passholders and other select travel trade clients on this day while teams prepare the parks for opening after the storm. Hotels remain operational as they focus on taking care of guests. Florida U-Haul Stores offering free self-storage Tuesday, August 29, 4.30 pm U-Haul is offering 30 days of free self-storage and U-Boxccontainer usage at 54 facilities across Florida to residents who stand to be impacted by Tropical Storm Idalia. Locations include 598 W. Hwy. 436 Altamonte Springs, 8546 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy. Kissimmee, 600 S. Kirkman Road Orlando, 7803 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando and more. Orlando International Airport remains open Tuesday, August 29, 4.00 pm MCO have issued a new update: Operational Update - Hurricane Idalia Based upon the current forecast of Hurricane Idalia, our airport will remain open and maintain a state of readiness. If conditions warrant, a temporary cessation of commercial operations may occur. Please continue to work with your airline in regards to your travel plans. For general airport delays, please visit: https://nasstatus.faa.gov/ Icon Park Orlando closing attractions Tuesday, August 29, 3.45 pm In anticipation of the storm arrival, entertainment destination Icon Park on International Drive has announced that The Wheel and Carousel will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 3 For further questions on other ICON Park restaurants and attractions, please contact their business directly. Discover Cove to close Wednesday Tuesday, August 29, 3.30 pm Discovery Cove has announced its closing ahead of the incoming storm. The park announced, "Due to the projected path of Hurricane Idalia, Discovery Cove will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. We are taking all necessary precautions to protect the safety of animals, employees and guests." The park expect operation will resume on August 31. Updated School Closures Tuesday, August 29, 3.15 pm As Hurricane Idalia affects Central Florida, we will be keeping yo up to date with all the latest school closures. Here is a list county-by-county. Orange County Important update for OCPS families: Based on this morning’s forecast, sustained wind speeds will exceed 35 MPH on the west side of Orange County and as a result there will be no school for students on Wednesday, Aug. 30. All after-school activities must end tonight by 8 p.m. and will be canceled for Wednesday. OCPS are planning on resuming school on Thursday, Aug. 31. Osceola County Earlier today Osceola County announced that schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, but now that decision has been changed. This afternoon, Governor Ron DeSantis amended Executive Order 23-171 for Hurricane Idalia to now include Osceola County. As such, all Osceola district public schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. All district offices and school campuses will also be closed. All after-school school activities, events, and programs are cancelled today and tomorrow. At this time, plans are to reopen schools and district departments on Thursday, August 31. Seminole County School officials in Seminole County said afterschool activities and evets will continue as usual on Tuesday, Aug. 29. Seminole County public schools will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Officials said they will provide an update on resuming school and extracurricular activities at a later date. Lake County All after-school events are canceled Tuesday for Lake County public schools, with the exception of Extended Learning Centers, which will be open until 6 p.m. Parents, however, are asked to pick up their children from ELC as early as possible. Schools and offices will be closed on Wednesday, Aug. 29. The Villages Elementary and Lost Lake Elementary will be used as storm shelters. Both will serve special-needs guests and are pet-friendly. Lake County expects to reopen schools and offices on Thursday. Rollins College Tuesday evening classes remain as scheduled. On Wednesday, August 30, no in-person classes will be held. Faculty will implement their hurricane plan from their syllabi, which allows for alternative instructional modalities (ex. a virtual option, alternative assignment, etc.) All in-person campus programming and activities are cancelled Wednesday. . Valencia College Valencia College will be closed on Wednesday, 8/30, due to the potential impact of Hurricane Idalia. In-person and online classes will not be held during this time. University of Central Florida Academic and most campus operations are suspended Wednesday, Aug. 30. Students, faculty, and staff should remain indoors and off the roads during periods of possible intermittent tropical winds and weather. Standard operations will continue through 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, and are planned to resume Thursday, Aug. 31. Orlando, Osceola & Brevard now in State Of Emergency Tuesday, August 29, 3.10 pm A state of emergency has now been declared in 49 Florida counties, according to an amendment to an executive order from Gov. Ron DeSantis. Yesterday, there were 46 counties under a state of emergency. Brevard, Orange and Osceola counties were added to the executive order today. Osceola County Schools to close Tuesday, August 29, 3.00 pm Earlier today Osceola County announced that schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, but now that decision has been changed. This afternoon, Governor Ron DeSantis amended Executive Order 23-171 for Hurricane Idalia to now include Osceola County. As such, all Osceola district public schools will be closed on Wednesday, August 30. All district offices and school campuses will also be closed. All after-school school activities, events, and programs are cancelled today and tomorrow. At this time, plans are to reopen schools and district departments on Thursday, August 31. Tampa Bay Bucs cancel practice Wednesday Tuesday, August 29, 2.00 pm The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have canceled Wednesday's scheduled practice as a precaution due to threat Hurricane Idalia could have on local area. The team said Tuesday it had also adjusted Thursday's practice session to begin at 10:45 a.m. ET and would be monitoring the storm should more schedule changes be needed. Orange County Schools to close Tuesday, August 29, 12.50 pm Based on this morning’s forecast, sustained wind speeds will exceed 35 MPH on the west side of Orange County and as a result there will be no school for students on Wednesday, Aug. 30. All after-school activities must end tonight by 8 p.m. and will be canceled for Wednesday. OCPS are planning on resuming school on Thursday, Aug. 31. Osceola County Update Tuesday, August 29, 12.40 pm Osceola County have held a news briefing saying that the county will be spared the worst of the weather, although residents should still make preparations for the storm and be alert in case of any deviations in the hurricane’s track. Kissimmee Mayor Olga Gonzalez urged people to make final preparations before weather conditions begin to deteriorate this afternoon. Locally, the storm is forecast to produce between 2 to 4 inches of rain and sustained winds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts of up to 45 mph. Schools in the county are expected to remain open tomorrow, and officials said they are not opening shelters at this time but will monitor the storm’s development and have them on standby. Florida activates search-and-rescue teams Tuesday, August 29, 12.35 pm Every Florida's Urban Search and Rescue teams have been activated ahead of Hurricane Idalia's arrival. 8 teams made up of close to 600 search-and-rescue personnel are ready to help where needed. Starlink internet devices deployed in case of service disruption Tuesday, August 29, 12.25 pm Gov. Ron DeSantis has deployed over 200 Starlink internet devices across areas expected to be impacted by Hurricane Idalia. Nearly 250 devices have been deployed so far, with over 500 staged and ready to go. FAA rerouting planes before Idalia hits Florida Tuesday, August 29, 12.00 pm The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that they have started rerouting planes and closing Gulf routes today as Idalia continues to target Florida. The agency say it is possible that they may have to pause flights in and out of Palm Beach International Airport, Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. National Hurricane Center 11 am update Tuesday, August 29, 11.20 am The National Hurricane Center has just released its 11 am Hurricane Idalia update. Idalia has gained additional strength Tuesday morning and has maximum sustained winds of 85 mph with stronger wind gusts. The storm currently remains a Category 1 hurricane for now, but it is expected to undergo rapid intensification and become an extremely dangerous Category 3 hurricane before landfall on Wednesday. The intensity on Wednesday morning just before landfall has increased in the forecast up to 125 mph, only 5 mph below Category 4 strength. Idalia is located about 275 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, and is moving northward at 14 mph. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend outward up to 160 miles. Landfall is still expected in the Big Bend area of Florida early Wednesday morning. Amtrak cancels trains and modifies routes Tuesday, August 29, 11.05 am Amtrak is canceling several trains and modifying routes in advance of Hurricane Idalia. The rail line has so far canceled 12 East Coast routes on Tuesday and Wednesday that originate in or terminate in the Orlando and Miami areas. Those routes are the Auto Train, Silver Star, and Silver Meteor. Amtrak has also shortened Palmetto routes on Tuesday and Wednesday. Amtrak have called the measures “a safety precaution for customers and employees.” FDOT suspends tolls in several counties Tuesday, August 29, 11.00 am The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) suspended tolls in Citrus, Hernando Hillsborough, Lake, Pasco, Pinellas and Sumter counties as of 4 a.m. ET on Tuesday. In addition, as wind becomes stronger later today and into the night, FDOT will coordinate with local law enforcement to close bridges once speeds reach in excess of 40 miles per hour. Florida Division of Emergency Management issue info line Tuesday, August 29, 10.30 am The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is up & running! This toll-free hotline is activated to provide additional resources to help Floridians receive accurate & up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Idalia. State Assistance Information Line: 1-800-342-3557 Tampa Bay update Tuesday, August 29, 9.45 am Florida residents have been warned to "wrap up preparations" as Idalia gets ever closer to Florida. The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay have warned of storm surge as high as 4 to 7 inches in Tampa Bay and 8 to 12 inches further north, along with heavy rains and tropical and hurricane force winds, depending on the location. Tornadoes were also possible. New Walt Disney World statement Tuesday, August 29, 9.30 am As Idalia becomes a hurricane, Walt Disney World has issues an update on its preparations for the storm ahead of its arrival Wednesday. The update posted this morning, asks all guests staying at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground to remove and stow all outside items, including tents and décor, and take in camper awnings by 6 pm on Tuesday, August 29. If you’d like to depart early or discuss alternate options for your vacation, please contact WDW at (407) 939-2744. For Guests looking to modify or cancel their Disney Resort hotel reservations, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Plans. Orlando International Airport Update Tuesday, August 29, 8.45 am Orlando International Airport have shared their latest update on the storm, predicting that, "we do not foresee any significant impact to our operations at this time." While the airport is confident of no major impacts, they are urging passengers to check with their airline in regards to specific flights. Here is the update in full: Operational Update - Hurricane Idalia Our airport is open and operational. We continue to monitor the status of Hurricane Idalia and we do not foresee any significant impact to our operations at this time. If operational changes occur, we'll post about it. A quick reminder that many airlines may adjust their schedules to better accommodate their travelers during this inclement weather – delays and cancellations may occur. Please make sure to verify with your airline directly for any updates in regards to your specific fight. Hurricane Idalia is strengthening Tuesday, August 29, 8.30 am According to NOAA Hurricane Hunters, Hurricane Idalia is getting stronger. Idalia now has maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour with stronger gusts. Rapid intensification is likely through landfall, and Idalia is forecast to become an extremely dangerous, major hurricane before landfall on Wednesday. Idalia is located about 320 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, and moving northward at 14 miles per hour. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend outward up to 160 miles. Idalia now a Major Hurricane, continues to target Florida Tuesday, August 29, 6.00 am As we continue to monitor Idalia, the storm continues to intensify and officially became a hurricane in the early hours of Tuesday morning. In the latest update from the National Hurricane Center, Idalia is expected to rapidly intensify into an extremely dangerous major hurricane before making landfall in the Big Bend area of the state on Wednesday. Currently Idalia is spinning northwest of Cuba with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph and is moving north towards Florida at 14 mph. The National Hurricane Center are urging residents to prepare now, as life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds are becoming increasingly likely for large portions of the Florida Gulf Coast. Residents in these areas should follow advice today from local officials. Destructive winds will occur along the Florida Gulf Coast's Big Bend Region with huge impacts in Levy and Dixie counties. Winds over 100 mph are possible in these areas on Wednesday morning. Here in Central Florida, if the current track of Idalia continues, the worst of the weather will stay to the west of Central Florida. Gusty squalls will begin to enter the area this afternoon, increasing in frequency and intensity into tonight. It is expected that the worst effects of Idalia will be felt for the majority of Central Florida late Tuesday and through the day on Wednesday. Current Theme Park Updates Monday, August 28, 8.00 pm With much of the state forecast to experience severe weather, area theme parks are making plans to prepare for the worst of the weather. Walt Disney World Walt Disney World has issued a brief statement on its website, detailing its preparations and cancelation policy ahead of the storms predicted impacts on Central Florida. The update posted at 3pm, Monday, August 28 reads, "Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members." The resort has also reassured concerned guests that they can reschedule their upcoming trip or cancel their stay with all customary cancellation fees to be waived. Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando Resort have issued a statement on its website regarding the current storm that is threatening Florida. The very brief update this afternoon from Universal at 4.05 pm Monday, August 28 reads, "At this time, our park operations and hours are continuing as normal. We are closely monitoring the weather. Please check back for updates." The resort has also reassured concerned guests that they can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all customary cancellation fees to bewaived. SeaWorld Orlando No update at this time. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has enacted its Named Storm Policy and will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday August 29 and remain closed Wednesday, August 30. The park currently plans to reopen on Thursday, August 31. In a statement the park commented, "Precautions are in place following the parks’ comprehensive weather preparedness plan to ensure the safety of our animals and ambassadors during this time." Also at Busch Gardens, Adventure Island Water Park is closing also. Adventure Island Tampa Bay will be closed Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31. The park plans to reopen on Friday, September 1. LEGOLAND Florida / Peppa Pig Theme Park No update at this time. Universal Orlando issue brief statement on storm Monday, August 28, 4.50 pm Universal Orlando Resort has issued a statement on its website regarding the current storm that is threatening Florida. The very brief update this afternoon from Universal reads, "At this time, our park operations and hours are continuing as normal. We are closely monitoring the weather. Please check back for updates." The resort has also assured guests that they can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all cancellation fees to be waived. Walt Disney World issue statement on Storm Idalia Monday, August 28, 4.20 pm Walt Disney World has issued a brief statement on its website, detailing its preparations and operational impacts ahead of the storms predicted impacts on Central Florida. The update reads, "Walt Disney World Resort is currently operating under normal conditions. We are closely monitoring the path of the projected weather as we continue to prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members." Guests can reschedule their trip or cancel their stay with all cancellation fees to be waived. Storm Idalia Update Monday, August 28, 3.55 pm As we continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia, the storm continues to intensify and is now forecast to be a major hurricane over the eastern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday/Wednesday before making landfall between Tampa Bay and the Big Bend area sometime late Tuesday into early Wednesday. In the latest update Monday afternoon from the National Hurricane Center, Idalia is now nearing the western tip of Cuba, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, moving north at 8 mph,. The National Hurricane Center are urging residents to prepare now, as life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds are becoming increasingly likely for large portions of the Florida Gulf Coast where a Storm Surge Warning is in effect, including Tampa Bay & the Big Bend. Currently Idalia is still considered a tropical storm, but it is forecast to become a hurricane later today, Monday. The National Hurricane Center say that as the storm continues on its probable collision course with Florida. While the National Hurricane Center are still currently predicting a major category 3 storm, the Florida Division of Emergency Management are planning for the storm to hit the west coast of Florida as a huge category 4 storm. Currently in Central Florida, weather conditions are predicted to include strong gusty winds, especially in squalls, rainfall amounts 2 to 3 inches with locally higher totals of 4 to 5 inches, and a few tornadoes. Today is the best day for final preparations related to Idalia. Your emergency kit should contain a minimum of 3 days worth of food and water, a first aid kit, phone charger, batteries, a NOAA weather radio, medicine, and extra clothes. Don’t forget about children or pets too. SunRail to suspend services ahead of storm Monday, August 28, 3.15 pm As Tropical Storm Idalia continues to strengthen, with current forecasts predicting that the storm will bring life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds to Florida, SunRail have announced that they are suspending services. SunRail services will be suspended Tuesday, 8/29, as SunRail will begin working to prepare the corridor and render it safe prior to the impending storm. For more information on how SunRail prepares for severe weather click here. Zoo Tama to close due to projected severe weather Monday, August 28, 1.30 pm Due to Tropical Storm Idalia’s potential impact to the Tampa Bay area, ZooTampa at Lowry Park will be closed to guests on Tuesday, August 29, for storm preparations and on Wednesday, August 30, for projected severe weather. Currently they plan to re-open on Thursday following a thorough park safety assessment. Zoo School will be closed from Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31. ZooTampa say that they have a comprehensive severe weather preparedness plan in place to ensure the safety of animals and team members. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to close Monday, August 28, 1.00 pm Due to the projected path of Tropical Storm Idalia, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has enacted its Named Storm Policy and will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday August 29 and remain closed Wednesday, August 30. The park currently plans to reopen on Thursday, August 31. In a statement the park commented, "Precautions are in place following the parks’ comprehensive weather preparedness plan to ensure the safety of our animals and ambassadors during this time." Also at Busch Gardens, Adventure Island Water Park is closing also. Adventure Island Tampa Bay will be closed Tuesday, August 29 through Thursday, August 31. The park plans to reopen on Friday, September 1. Tampa International Airport to close ahead of incoming storm Monday, August 28, 12.05 pm As we continue to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia, which is threatening to bring life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds to parts of Florida, the first major closure of the storm has been announced. Tampa International Airport will suspend all commercial operations beginning at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday ahead of Tropical Storm Idalia, with the Airport remaining closed until it can assess any damages later in the week. The closure will allow the Airport and its partners to prepare the airfield and terminals, including the securing of jet bridges, ground equipment and any remaining aircraft before Idalia’s expected landfall early Wednesday as a potential major hurricane. Some cargo and private aircraft operations could continue overnight, but all air traffic will cease by 7 a.m. Tuesday morning. The Airport, including the Main Terminal and Airsides will be closed to all visitors and is not equipped to function as a shelter. The Airport anticipates reopening Thursday morning, with damage assessments beginning after the storm passes. TPA will closely coordinate the reopening of the Airport with its partners based on roadway safety, facility readiness and staffing. Any changes to the timing will be promptly communicated. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. 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Orlando has a ton of options for spooky fun at Halloween, but if your looking for something truly unique then Pirates Dinner Adventure is a great choice with not one but two shows to enjoy! Get ready for a fang-tastic time this fall – Vampirates are taking over Treasure Bay at Pirates Dinner Adventure and Teatro Martini’s annual Halloween Revue is returning with more spooktacular entertainment than ever before! Vampirates: When the Blood Moon Rises On select nights Sept. 19 through Oct. 31, Pirates Dinner Adventure will host “Vampirates: When the Blood Moon Rises”, a Halloween-themed dinner show suitable for ghouls and goblins of all ages. As the Blood Moon casts an eerie glow over the high seas, the notorious Captain Sebastian the Black and his pirate crew of vampires are in search of the Sulzana’s Eye, a cursed necklace that will allow them to live in the daylight. And only you can stop them before the necklace falls into the wrong hands! Embark on a spooktacular journey filled with aerial artistry, swordplay, death-defying stunts and dynamic duels. In addition to the themed show, Pirates Dinner Adventure is introducing other ways to get in the haunting spirit this year. Guests can satisfy their sweet tooth on the Trick R Treat Trail and the whole family is encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes on select nights of the Vampirates show. Teatro Martini’s Halloween Revue For adults looking for a thrilling night out, Teatro Martini is calling. The Vegas-inspired show is hosting its annual Halloween Revue from Sept. 29 to Oct. 31. Teatro Martini showcases some of the world’s top performers in an exciting and interactive dinner show – featuring lyrical pole dancers, comedians, magicians and jugglers. Throughout the season, guests can also try a limited-edition, themed cocktails. Pirates Dinner Adventure will offer guests a taste of the Blood Moon cocktail and guests at Teatro Martini can sip on a spooky, Ghost-tini. "Orlando has always been the perfect place to visit for Halloween lovers,” said Nick Kroger, Orlando Dinner Entertainment’s Creative Director. “Orlando Dinner Entertainment is proud to offer a variety of experiences that are memorable for the whole family, as well as unique evenings for adults.” Pirates Dinner Adventure’s general admission includes a three-course dinner with unlimited soft drinks. Ticket prices for Vampirates are $72.95 for adults and $46.95 for children ages three to 10. Children ages two and under are free. Upgrades are available for purchase. Parental discretion is advised. To reserve your seats, call 407-206-5102 or click here. Teatro Martini’s general admission includes a three-course dinner with unlimited soft drinks. Ticket prices for the Halloween Revue are $73.95. Upgrades are available for purchase. Must be 18+ to attend. To reserve your seats, call 407-206-5100 or click here. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Ghoulish goodies are fright this way! Uncover the Halloween concoctions coming soon to Walt Disney World Resort. And be sure to keep an eye out for even more sweets and treats coming later this season. Get pump(kin)ed because Halloween is nearly here in Orlando, and at Walt Disney World Resort when fall arrives, so do the treats! In the coming weeks, delights will be landing at various locations at Disney Springs and select Disney Resort hotels, with even more goodies coming in October as we get closer to Halloween. Starting as early as Sept. 1, the chefs will be dusting off their cauldrons and making some potions of their own with eats and sips that will put a spell on you with each and every bite. From the adorably delicious Donald Candy Corn-Chocolate Piñata at The Ganachery to the Plant-based Monster Cupcake available at multiple Disney Resort hotels, this year is sure to be filled with plenty of treats, and maybe even some tricks. Disney Springs Amorette’s Patisserie (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Jack Skellington Éclair: Pumpkin cream éclair (New) Sally Éclair: Caramel-chocolate éclair (New) Oogie Boogie Cream Puff: Cream puff filled with cookies ‘n cream mousse and topped with whipped cream (New) Maleficent Petit Cake: Layers of vanilla chiffon, caramel, shortbread crumble, and milk chocolate mousse (New) Mummy Mickey Mouse Dome Cake: Layers of peanut butter-milk chocolate mousse, chewy caramel, peanut crunch, and dark chocolate glaçage (New) Dockside Margaritas (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4) Frozen Black Cherry and Apple-Lime Margarita: Patrón Silver Tequila, Grand Marnier Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, lime juice, black cherry purée, and Granny Smith apple garnished with an orange wedge and a cherry The Ganachery Donald Candy Corn-Chocolate Piñata: White chocolate piñata filled with pumpkin-spiced marshmallows and crisp pearls (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Pirate Mickey Chocolate Piñata: Milk chocolate piñata with crisp pearls, chocolate treasure coins, and marshmallow treats (Available Oct. 15 through 31) Jack Skellington Dark Ganache: Grand Cru medium-roasted, custom blend (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Poison Apple Ganache Square: Sour apple ganache enrobed in 65% dark chocolate (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Pumpkin Chai Ganache Square (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Minnie Trick-or-Treat Chocolate Pop: Caramel ganache pop enrobed in 65% dark chocolate (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31) Caramel Ganache Chocolate Skulls: 65% dark chocolate skulls filled with caramel ganache (Available Oct. 1 through Oct. 31) Haunted Mansion Portrait Bars: Ganache bars with flavors of raspberry, salted caramel, chipotle, and passion fruit (Available through Oct. 31) Hitchhiking Ghosts Chocolate Chiller: A chilling blend of three chocolates, malted milk, and cream (Non-alcoholic) (Available Sept. 15 through Oct. 31) Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Witch’s Potion: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, St. Augustine Gin, Bols Blue Curaçao Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, splash of grenadine, and a splash of soda water garnished with a lemon wheel and hibiscus flower (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4) Cinnamon-Pear Cocktail: Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, pear nectar, lemon juice, and cinnamon simple syrup garnished with a cinnamon stick (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 30) Marketplace Snacks (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31) Halloween Minnie Waffle Sundae: Bubble waffle filled with chocolate soft-serve, orange sauce, chocolate cream cookies, candy corn, and chocolate sticks (New) Swirls on the Water (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31) Haunted Mansion Cone: Pistachio and purple cheesecake soft-serve swirled in a black vanilla cone with a Hitchhiking Ghosts chocolate medallion (New) DOLE Whip Sampler: DOLE Whip and vanilla soft-serve with pineapple wedge, pumpkin and salted caramel soft-serve with caramel sauce and caramel crisp pearls, and pistachio soft-serve and purple cheesecake soft-serve with roasted salted pistachios (New) Apple Cider Slush with Pumpkin Soft Serve: Apple cider, pumpkin soft-serve, and an apple slice (Non-alcoholic) (Alcoholic version available with Fireball Cinnamon Whisky) (New) Vivoli il Gelato (Currently available) Pumpkin Cheesecake Bomboloni: An Italian doughnut stuffed with pumpkin cheesecake filling (New) Pumpkin Cheesecake Bombashake: A milkshake made with pumpkin and cheesecake gelato, caramel sauce, and a Pumpkin Cheesecake Bomboloni on top (New) Jack-O-Lantern Float: Vanilla gelato, Fanta Orange, and whipped cream (Non-alcoholic) Monster Shake: Mint Chocolate Chip gelato, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and chocolate chips (Non-alcoholic) Vampire Float: Vanilla gelato, Sprite, strawberry sauce, and whipped cream (Non-alcoholic) Outdoor Bars (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4) Apple Cider Cocktail: Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey, Stoli Vanil Vodka, apple cider juice, red cranberry juice, and grenadine (New) Halloween Rum Punch: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Bols Blue Curaçao Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, cranberry juice, and grenadine Sour Apple Margarita: Patrón Silver Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, DeKuyper Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, lime juice, and Granny Smith Apple garnished with a lime Disney Resort Hotels Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court and End Zone Food Court (Mobile order available) Chicken Adobo Nachos: Blue corn tortilla chips with grilled chicken adobo, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, roasted corn pico, and a zesty pumpkin cheese sauce finished with a cilantro-lime crema and yellow corn tortilla strips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; not available at World Premiere Food Court) Mickey Pumpkin Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake-chocolate-ginger torte with almond crumble (Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 30) Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Boma – Flavors of Africa, Sanaa, Sanaa Lounge, and Victoria Falls Lounge (Available Sept. 15 through Oct. 31) Doom-ela South African Margarita: Margarita featuring Patrón Silver Tequila with a South African Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon floater Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Mobile order available) Chicken Adobo Nachos: Blue corn tortilla chips with grilled chicken adobo, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, roasted corn pico, and a zesty pumpkin cheese sauce finished with a cilantro-lime crema and yellow corn tortilla strips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31) The Whoopie Monster: Apple and caramel whoopie pie with marshmallow buttercream (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31) Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Centertown Market (Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 30; mobile order available) Pumpkin-Hazelnut Tart: Chocolate tart shell filled with hazelnut ganache and spiced pumpkin cheesecake garnished with chocolate décor and candied pumpkin seeds (New) Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available) Tombstone Sweet: Chocolate cake, chocolate-coffee mousse, caramel-milk chocolate mousse, and ganache Scat Cat’s Club – Café (Available through Oct. 31) Ghoulish Delight Beignets: Three Mickey-shaped beignets dusted with cookies and cream powdered sugar and a ghoulish marshmallow crème drizzle Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available) Tombstone Sweet: Chocolate cake, chocolate-coffee mousse, caramel-milk chocolate mousse, and ganache Disney’s Riviera Resort Le Petit Café (Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 25) Pumpkin Napoleon: Pumpkin diplomat cream, spiced diplomat cream, and dark chocolate (New) Primo Piatto (Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 24; mobile order available) Pumpkin-Hazelnut-Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake with hazelnut-chocolate swirl, vanilla whipped panna cotta, and a milk chocolate pumpkin coin Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 25) Apple Tarte Tatin: Praline noisette, apricot jelly, and Chantilly cream (New) Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 30; mobile order available at The Artist’s Palette only) Mini Pumpkin: Pumpkin mousse, caramel, dulce crunch, and chocolate décor (New) Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Food Courts (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available) Plant-based Monster Cupcake: Allergy-friendly chocolate cupcake with a ghoulish swirl of vanilla buttercream (New) (Plant-based) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly); Available at the following locations: World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Island H20 Water Park at the Promenade on unset Walk in Kissimmee has launched a limited time deal for its 2024 Season Passes. Island H2O Water Park has announced its highly anticipated Flash Sale for its 2024 Season Passes. This limited-time offer presents an incredible opportunity for water park enthusiasts to secure their passes for the upcoming season while enjoying substantial savings and a wealth of exclusive benefits including the rest of 2023 season! New season passes can now be purchased for just $54.99 ($50 savings) per person, or $49.99 ($60 savings) for existing passholders seeking renewal. The Flash Sale ends on Labor Day, September 4, 2023. So be quick!! With the 2024 Season Pass, members receive an unbeatable package of benefits valued at $210, including: Unlimited admission for the entire 2024 Season during daily operating hours, providing endless opportunities for splashing, sliding, and enjoying the park's attractions One complimentary "Bring a Friend" pass for the remaining 2023 season (water park admission only, expires on November 26, 2023), enabling pass holders to share the fun with loved ones An additional "Bring a Friend" pass for the 2024 Season (expires on May 27, 2024) (New addition!) One “Holiday Nights” admission ticket, granting access to the park's new island-themed holiday event running select nights between November 8 – December 31 A stylish Souvenir Drink Bottle for the 2024 Season with $5.99 drink refills all season long Complimentary parking throughout the season Access to exclusive Season Pass holder events, creating unforgettable memories and connections with fellow water park enthusiasts To purchase a 2024 Season Pass or to learn more about Island H2O Water Park, visit www.IslandH2OWaterPark.com. Island H2O Water Park is Central Florida's newest water park, offering over 20 rides, slides and other splashing attractions. The park is themed around social media offering an immersive and interactive experience for all ages. Island H2O Water Park, ranked among the Best Outdoor Water Parks by USA TODAY for four consecutive years, is also a proud recipient of the 2019 World Waterpark Association’s Leading-Edge Award. This award recognizes its creative perfection of themes, facilities, programs, services and operational concepts in the water attractions industry. For more information on hours, birthday parties, groups, purchasing tickets, and season pass information, please visit www.IslandH2OWaterPark.com. Island H2O Water Park is located at 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee, FL, 34747. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

In the 5 am update from the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Idalia is now officially a Major Category 4 Storm as it churns towards Florida. As Hurricane Idalia churns towards Florida, the National Hurricane Center have released the 5 am advisory and the latest from this huge storm is that it is now officially a Major Category 4 Storm, and as the storm has still to make landfall, it could become even stronger before the eye comes ashore in the Gulf Coast. The storm is going to make landfall along the coast of Florida's Big Bend region, where catastrophic storm surge and destructive winds are expected. The hurricane is currently 60 miles west of Cedar Key and about 90 miles south of Tallahassee, with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. Here is the full advisory from the National Hurricane Center: Catastrophic impacts from storm surge inundation of 12 to 16 feet above ground level and destructive waves are expected somewhere between the Wakulla/Jefferson County line and Yankeetown, Florida. Life-threatening storm surge inundation is likely elsewhere along portions of the Florida Gulf Coast where a Storm Surge Warning is in effect. Residents in these areas should follow any advice given by local officials. Destructive life-threatening winds will occur where the core of Idalia moves onshore in the Big Bend region of Florida, with hurricane conditions expected elsewhere in portions of the Hurricane Warning area along the Florida Gulf Coast. Strong winds will also spread inland across portions of northern Florida and southern Georgia near the track of the center of Idalia where Hurricane Warnings are in effect. Residents in these areas should be prepared for long-duration power outages. Damaging hurricane-force winds are likely in portions of eastern Georgia and southeastern South Carolina where Hurricane Warnings are now in effect. Areas of flash, urban, and moderate river flooding, with considerable impacts, are expected from the Florida Big Ben through, central Georgia and South Carolina, through eastern North Carolina into Thursday For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

In the 5 pm update from the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Idalia continues to grow rapidly and is now officially a Major Category 2 Storm. The National Hurricane Center has just released its 5 pm Hurricane Idalia update, and the storm is now a Category 2 Storm, that is set to slam the state's west coast with dangerous life threatening winds and storm surge. In the latest update, there is little change to Idalia's track, and as Hurricane Idalia powers through the Gulf of Mexico. The National Weather Service is warning of a "life-threatening, dangerous situation," when the storm makes landfall as a major hurricane Wednesday. "To put this system into the historical context, there are no major hurricanes in the historical dataset going back to 1851 that have tracked into Apalachee Bay. None," the advisory said. Idalia is currently packing winds of 100 mph, and is centered about 195 miles southwest of Tampa. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site