In a rare turn of events, Universal Orlando Resort has temporarily closed one of its theme parks as Orlando experiences an extraordinary winter cold front.
The chilly weather has brought temperatures near freezing and even the possibility of snow—a spectacle last witnessed in the city in 1971.
Universal Orlando’s Proactive Measures for Guest Safety
Volcano Bay, a tropical-themed water park celebrated for its exhilarating attractions and relaxing island vibes, is designed to operate in warm, sunny weather. The unusual cold snap has made it impractical and unsafe to keep the park open.
“Ensuring the comfort and safety of our guests and team members is always our highest priority,” said a Universal spokesperson. “We’ll reopen Volcano Bay as soon as the weather improves and conditions are safe for everyone to enjoy.”
Orlando is synonymous with sunshine, making the possibility of snow an almost surreal occurrence. Meteorologists are closely watching the cold front, which has already caused record-breaking temperatures across the Southeast. A chance of snow flurries in Orlando has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike, as the city hasn’t seen snow in over 50 years.
The freezing temperatures present a unique challenge for water-based attractions. Rides like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster and the lazy river at Volcano Bay are optimized for warm weather, making the temporary closure a necessary precaution.
What This Means for Guests
Universal Orlando Resort is offering support to visitors affected by the closure. Guests holding tickets to Volcano Bay can contact Universal’s guest services team for options, including rescheduling or refunds. This flexible policy ensures that visitors can adjust their plans without hassle.
Universal’s other parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, remain open. To help guests stay comfortable, the resort has introduced heated zones and offers warm drinks and cold-weather gear at various locations.
Tips for Enjoying Universal During the Cold Front
If you’re visiting Universal Orlando during this rare cold spell, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your trip despite the chilly conditions:
- Bundle Up: Wear multiple layers, and don’t forget gloves and scarves to keep warm.
- Seek Indoor Fun: Attractions like The Bourne Stuntacular and the Hogwarts Express provide exciting, climate-controlled experiences.
- Indulge in Hot Treats: Warm up with a signature hot butterbeer or freshly brewed coffee available throughout the parks.
- Enjoy Shorter Wait Times: Cooler weather often results in smaller crowds, giving you the opportunity to experience more attractions with less waiting.
When Will Volcano Bay Reopen at Universal?
Universal Orlando is monitoring the weather closely and plans to reopen Volcano Bay once temperatures return to levels suitable for water-based activities. Guests are encouraged to check Universal’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates on park operations and weather-related closures.
This rare cold front brings an unexpected twist to the Universal Orlando experience. While some plans may have shifted due to the closure of Volcano Bay, guests can still enjoy a magical time at the resort. Universal’s commitment to providing memorable experiences shines through, even during a once-in-a-generation weather event.
As temperatures warm in the coming days, Volcano Bay will reopen, ready to offer its signature mix of thrills and relaxation. Until then, guests can find plenty of excitement and adventure across Universal Orlando’s other world-class parks.
Source: FOX 35 Orlando
