What’s happening over at Walt Disney World Resort?
The magic of the holiday season has brought record crowds to Walt Disney World, where festive offerings like rare character appearances, dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks, and the ever-controversial Lightning Lane Premier Pass have taken center stage. Yet, as the celebrations wind down, Central Florida is facing an unexpected chill that’s leaving its mark on the region’s iconic attractions.
Universal Orlando Resort has confirmed that Volcano Bay Water Theme Park will remain closed on January 2 and 3, 2025, due to unseasonably cold weather. The announcement, shared on the resort’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, stated:
“Universal Volcano Bay will be closed on Thursday, January 2, and Friday, January 3, due to inclement weather. For park updates, please call 407-817-8317 or stay tuned to Universal Orlando’s social channels.”
This closure follows another weather-related shutdown on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2024, highlighting how the recent cold fronts have disrupted operations.
According to forecasts from Click Orlando, Central Florida temperatures have plummeted, with daytime highs in the 60s and overnight lows falling to the 30s and 40s. “Wind chill values will mostly be in the 40s, but some areas may feel like the mid to upper 30s,” the report explained. These conditions are far from ideal for water parks, making Volcano Bay’s closure a predictable outcome.
Interestingly, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, located just miles away, remains open for now. While Blizzard Beach has had its share of weather-related closures—spanning multiple consecutive in late December during a previous cold snap—the park is currently operating as usual, offering guests the chance to enjoy attractions like Summit Plummet and Tike’s Peak.
Blizzard Beach’s decision to stay open contrasts with the broader trend of water park closures during colder weather. With Typhoon Lagoon indefinitely shuttered, Blizzard Beach is Disney’s sole operational water park, making it a key destination for guests hoping to splash into the new year.
However, the chilly conditions may not ease anytime soon. Meteorologists warn of an even more severe arctic blast expected to hit Central Florida around January 6, 2025. A recent Click Orlando report cautions, “Florida will indeed get in on the Arctic action as well. Temperatures will absolutely plummet when the first major winter system drags that dense but shallow layer of arctic air south.”
For now, visitors eager to enjoy Central Florida’s water parks should brace for potential disruptions as more cold fronts sweep through the region. While the current weather might not align with the Sunshine State’s reputation, patience could pay off for those waiting for warmer days.
What do you think? Should Disney’s Blizzard Beach close its gates during this unseasonable chill? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
