Disney World is the ultimate dream for children of all ages; with rides, shows, and mascots abounding, the place is a fantasy land where every wish becomes a reality. Unless, of course, you happen to be one of those exhausted, flustered parents with a screaming five-year-old. Or, you know, the resort you’re staying at happens to collapse into a sinkhole.
The later was most assuredly a big, unexpected bummer for guests at Clermont, Florida’s Summer Bay Resort, which is located close to Disney World. At about ten thirty in the evening on Sunday, guests reported to the authorities odd, unsettling sounds, such as glass breaking and large cracking noises. Thirty five people were evacuated from two villas before one began to crumble and, eventually, sink into the ground. Luckily, no injuries were reported, according to CNN.
The guests were relocated to other buildings at the resort, but many left behind important and personal items, such as medications and car keys. There were reports of guests fleeing through windows and of being caught off guard while bathing or sleeping.
Just how bad the damage done really is remains unclear; firefighters are still working to asses the extent of the harm. Reports of sinkholes have been common in the Tampa Bay area since June, causing structural damage, high insurance costs, and general trouble for residents and tourists, alike.
Paul Caldwell, the resort’s president, was quoted as saying to the press, “Our goal is to have everyone have a great vacation for the rest of the week. We’re going to do everything in our power to see that that happens.”
The writer’s heart goes out to the families effected by this odd occurrence, and hopes that, though their vacations might seem ruined, a lost set of car keys is typically a much better fate than death.