A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of southwestern Orange County, Florida, directly impacting the Walt Disney World Resort area. The warning is in effect until 5:45 PM EDT today, Monday, October 27, 2025. Guests at the parks and resorts should remain vigilant and follow all safety instructions.
Key Takeaways
- Severe Thunderstorm Warning active until 5:45 PM EDT.
- Storm detected near Lake Louisa, moving northeast at 35 mph.
- Wind gusts up to 60 mph expected, with frequent lightning.
- Walt Disney World Resort, Bay Lake, Windermere, Winter Garden, and Ocoee affected.
- Park operations may see temporary delays and ride closures.
Current Weather Alert and Impact Zones
The National Weather Service in Melbourne issued the warning at 5:12 PM. Radar indicated a severe thunderstorm located near Lake Louisa, approximately 10 miles west of Bay Lake. This storm is moving rapidly towards the northeast at 35 miles per hour.
The primary concern with this storm is the potential for damaging wind gusts, which could reach up to 60 miles per hour. Such winds are strong enough to cause significant damage to roofs, trees, and various outdoor structures. Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning is also a major hazard associated with this system.
Storm Details
- Issuance Time: 5:12 PM EDT
- Location: Near Lake Louisa, 10 miles west of Bay Lake
- Movement: Northeast at 35 mph
- Threats: 60 mph wind gusts, frequent lightning
Areas Under Warning
The severe thunderstorm warning encompasses several key communities in close proximity to the Walt Disney World Resort. These include Bay Lake, Windermere, Winter Garden, and Ocoee. Visitors and residents in these areas should prepare for adverse weather conditions.
Safety Measures for Park Guests
For guests currently enjoying their day at Walt Disney World theme parks or staying at the resort hotels, immediate attention to safety protocols is crucial. Park operations are likely to experience temporary delays or even ride closures due to the lightning and strong winds.
"Stay tuned to in-park weather alerts and announcements for real-time safety updates," park officials advise.
It is important for all visitors to heed these warnings. Seeking shelter indoors and away from windows is recommended. Outdoor activities should be paused until the warning expires and conditions improve.
Understanding Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means that a severe thunderstorm has been observed or detected by radar. These storms can produce hail one inch or larger in diameter, or wind gusts of 58 mph or more. They are more immediate and dangerous than a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, which indicates conditions are favorable for severe storms to develop.
Ongoing Resort and Park Developments
Despite the immediate weather concerns, Walt Disney World continues to see significant activity and developments. The resort has several projects underway, aiming to enhance the guest experience in the coming months and years.
For example, Magic Kingdom is preparing for the debut of the All-New Nighttime Parade Disney Starlight in 2025. This new entertainment offering is expected to draw large crowds and introduce fresh magic to the park's evening festivities. The announcement has already generated substantial interest, with over 431,000 views on related news.
Ride Refurbishments and Enhancements
Several popular attractions are also undergoing significant work. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is slated to receive a full retrack, a major refurbishment project that will ensure the ride's longevity and smooth operation. This news has garnered over 251,000 views, indicating its importance to fans.
Another highly anticipated project is Tiana's Bayou Adventure. While the ride is still under development, its effects status is being closely monitored by enthusiasts. The Cool Ship attraction at Magic Kingdom is currently closed for refurbishment, a minor but notable update for park regulars.
- Big Thunder Mountain: Full retrack planned.
- Tiana's Bayou Adventure: Effects status under watch.
- Cool Ship: Currently closed for refurbishment.
Resort Hotel Upgrades and Dining Changes
Beyond the theme parks, Walt Disney World resorts are also seeing a wave of refurbishments. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort lobby is scheduled for an update, promising a refreshed look for this iconic hotel. Similarly, Port Orleans French Quarter Lobby will undergo refurbishment through September, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort Lobby is set for a retro-inspired refresh.
Dining experiences are also evolving. Reports indicate Liberty Tree Tavern has seen slight menu changes. Additionally, Satuli Canteen, a popular dining spot, may no longer be offering its build-your-own bowls, a change that could impact guest dining choices.
Recent Guest Feedback
Guest experiences remain a critical aspect of resort operations. A recent report highlighted a bad experience at T-Rex restaurant on October 20, drawing attention to the importance of consistent service quality across all dining venues.
These ongoing changes reflect Disney's commitment to maintaining and enhancing its properties, even as it navigates immediate challenges like severe weather. Guests are encouraged to check official Walt Disney World channels for the most current information on park hours, ride availability, and dining options, especially during inclement weather.
