
The final weeks of 2024 and the opening of 2025 have brought an unusual chill to Central Florida, sending shivers through some of the region’s most iconic attractions. As temperatures plunge, theme park closures and even the possibility of snow are making headlines.
Orlando’s world-famous theme parks have been feeling the freeze, with a series of cold fronts bringing record-breaking low temperatures. These Arctic blasts have disrupted operations at major resorts like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, where water parks have seen significant impacts.
This week, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park—the only Disney water park currently operating—and Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park faced extended closures. Fortunately, both parks reopened their doors to guests on Friday, January 17.
Cold Snaps and Record-Breaking Temps
“Morning temperatures have been routinely starting in the 30s and 40s across the region, and afternoons have often struggled to reach the 50s and 60s,” Click Orlando reported. “Normally, the Orlando area is enjoying highs around 71 degrees at this time of year, so this cold streak is definitely standing out.”
While Florida does occasionally experience chilly January weather, this year’s conditions are setting records.
“As of now, Orlando is experiencing its 12th coldest January ever on record, with an average high of 55.7 degrees,” the report continued. “For some context, the coldest January on record was in 1977, when highs averaged 50.6 degrees, which is pretty insane for Florida!”
This January is also the coldest the state has seen since 2010, which recorded average highs of 54.4 degrees, making it the fifth coldest on record. While Disneyland Paris guests may be familiar with wintry conditions, Disney World fans in Florida don’t usually anticipate this level of chill—so is snow now in the realm of possibility?
Could Snow Really Fall in Florida?
Florida might be nicknamed the Sunshine State, but this week, it’s feeling more like a winter wonderland—or at least in the northern parts of the state.
“A pure blast of Arctic air prior to the system developing could set the stage for some snow and ice in North Florida early next week,” Click Orlando reported in a recent weather update. “Cold will start to spill down the Florida peninsula on [January 18].”
While North Florida might see a dusting of snow, it’s unlikely that Central Florida and its world-class theme parks will be graced with icy precipitation this time. Visitors to Walt Disney World probably won’t have to worry about Elsa’s magic freezing the castle just yet.
Are you braving the freeze in Florida this season? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!