Powerful Thunderstorm Disrupts Walt Disney World Operations

Overview

• The storm moved through the resort on Sunday, Aug. 23, producing heavy rain, strong winds and frequent lightning that forced temporary suspension of outdoor attractions across all four parks.
• A guest posted video showing being stranded on the Disney Skyliner during the weather hold while Cast Members and crews managed the system and riders were later cleared without injury.
• A fire alarm at EPCOT’s The Land Pavilion led to a mass evacuation of sheltering guests and a subsequent all-clear from responding authorities with no confirmed fire or injuries.
• Eyewitness posts reported multiple lightning strikes around Magic Kingdom and Seven Seas Lagoon and heavy rain caused localized flooding and crowded indoor shops and food courts.
• Disney has not issued a detailed explanation for the EPCOT alarm and follow-up safety checks and official findings were pending as outlets continued to rely on social-media eyewitness accounts.