A trip to EPCOT became anything but routine for a group of Walt Disney World guests earlier this month.
Instead of arriving at the theme park as expected, passengers found themselves sitting aboard a stopped Disney Monorail for approximately 90 minutes. What began as a transportation problem became an uncomfortable wait after lightning reportedly affected the line and caused a power outage.
And for guests already nervous about riding high above the ground, the situation became particularly unsettling.
Disney Monorail Stops During Trip to EPCOT
The incident happened on September 8, 2026, while guest Tanya Lee was traveling aboard the monorail toward EPCOT.
According to Lee, the train stopped because of a power outage following a lightning strike involving the monorail line.
Disney kept passengers informed as crews worked on the problem. Guests were told that Disney was attempting to get a tow into position to push the disabled monorail.
But getting everyone moving again took time.
“We were on there for one and a half hours, and during that time the driver talked us through how to take out the window,” Lee said.
For Lee, getting stranded aboard the train brought one of her longtime concerns about the monorail to life.
“I was nervous as I do not like heights, and I have always been worried about being stuck on one of those [monorails] when I ride them,” she said.
Despite the unusual circumstances, Lee said the other passengers remained positive throughout the lengthy wait.
“Everyone was in good spirits, as there is not much you can do at that point,” she explained.
Disney Gives Guests Gift Cards and Lightning Lane Passes
After approximately 90 minutes aboard the stopped monorail, the guests eventually exited.
Disney Guest Relations then spoke with the affected passengers and provided bottled water.
Guests also reportedly received $50 Disney gift cards and Lightning Lane passes following the incident.
While the situation ultimately ended without Lee reporting a more serious outcome, spending an hour and a half aboard a stopped monorail can significantly disrupt a Disney World day.
The monorail remains an important transportation option around Walt Disney World, connecting guests with EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, the Transportation and Ticket Center, and several Disney Resort hotels.
For the passengers aboard this particular train, however, a transportation ride turned into an unexpected 90-minute ordeal.
