With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic shutting down most events and theme parks throughout the country, Walt Disney World Resort has announced it will temporarily close after Sunday, March 15 out of an abundance of caution for their Cast Members and guests.

The closure is stated to last through the end of the month, but Walt Disney World officials have noted that they are monitoring the developments. Walt Disney World hotels are slated to remain open during this time, as is Disney Springs. Cast Members will continue to receive payment throughout the closure period.

This is the advisory currently posted on the Walt Disney World website. If calling in to cancel or modify your reservation, do be patient as phone lines are experiencing lengthy waits, and online portals are also glitchy from increased traffic.

This was the official statement released by Disney Parks and Resorts, and Disney Cruise Line regarding the closures.

The decision to close comes days after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order declaring a State of Emergency because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Walt Disney World Resort is just the latest Disney resort to close over the pandemic. Shanghai Disney Resort was the first to close, but has recently opened up areas of the resort not including Shanghai Disneyland. Currently, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort remain closed. Disneyland Paris was also announced closed alongside the Walt Disney World closure announcement.

Guests with packages booked through the Walt Disney Travel Company may currently reschedule for a “future date in 2020” without having to pay the $50.00 change fee.

On Thursday night, our very own Tom Corless made a statement regarding the day’s news:

Keep reading WDWNT for continuing coverage of this ongoing story.