Mother Nature vs. Disney
What happens when Mother Nature strikes while you’re on a Disney Vacation?
Earthquakes, hurricanes, lightening, and inclement weather happen. Disney’s got you.
A magnitude 5.2 earthquake hit Southern California at 9:01 pm Tuesday August 6, 2024. It was centered about 140 miles north-east of Disneyland.
Some people felt it. Others didn’t. Some wondered what was going on because several rides shut down. Others didn’t notice a change.
Earthquakes vary in intensity, feel, and how they affect structures. Some feel like you’re standing in a box that’s getting shaken back and forth while others feel like rolling waves.
Shock waves might travel solely in one direction, or they may bounce against underground barriers and move back in the direction they originated.
There are too many factors to definitively say, “if a magnitude XYZ happens within [this] distance of Disneyland, all rides will shut down.”
Don’t worry!
Southern California is designed to handle earthquakes.
If circumstances arise where a ride’s structure has even the slightest possibility of damage due to earthquake, here’s what happens:
Some rides may be temporarily closed and evacuated to allow staff to follow safety protocols.
For example, in December 2023, after a minor earthquake, Disneyland closed at least 35 rides, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Indiana Jones Adventure, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
Attractions reopen on a rolling basis as they’re inspected and cleared safe for operation.
In the meantime, as long as the entire park is not evacuated you’re free to enjoy open attractions, dining, shopping, and taking in the atmosphere.
What about hurricanes at Disney World?
It’s surprisingly rare for a hurricane to hit close enough to Disney World for it to seriously impact your vacation.
The theme parks and water parks have closed just six times for hurricanes since its opening in 1971.
Typically, the four parks will stay open while certain rides or attractions will close in light of the weather.
During Hurricane Ian in 2022, Disney World closed all theme parks and water parks on September 28. Guests had plenty of notice and were able to shelter in place at their resort. When the theme parks reopened the next day, you couldn’t even tell a major storm had hit.
That being said, if you feel uncomfortable about going to Disney World when a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within 7 days of your scheduled arrival date, you may reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Disney Resort Hotel Package and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without penalty.
What about thunder, lightning, or other types of inclement weather at either Disneyland or Disney World?
All outdoor attractions will close when lightning is observed in the area. You’re free to walk around and enjoy indoor attractions and experiences.
High winds may also cause some rides and attractions to temporarily close for safety.
Just raining? There are a few attractions that will close during rain, but many remain open and Lightning Lane still works in the rain too.
The best part about rain, especially in Southern California and Disneyland? The crowds tend to thin out and the park becomes a very enjoyable place to be!
Most of the time, Mother Nature may put a temporary pause on some parts of your Disney Vacation, but there’s still plenty to do and enjoy while being safe.
Cathy Weiss is a huge Disney fan and lover specializing in trips to Disneyland, Disney World, and Aulani - a Disney resort in Hawaii. She has the expert answers you need for a truly magical vacation.
Planning and booking your Disney trip with her is so much more than “when are you going” and “where do you want to stay”… And it’s easy!
Whether you’re booking your first Disney vacation or 100th, having Cathy on your side as your personal go-to - especially as new informaiton and exciting announcements come out all the time - means you’ll have an unforgettable experience! Get started today.