National Weather Service Issues Stay-in Alert for Disney World Guests, Mass Casualties Reported

It’s the dead of summer, so the weather isn’t too favorable for those looking to spend some time in the sun, including Walt Disney World Resort guests. Numerous casualties have been reported directly related to scorching temperatures and the heat index.

A person dressed in a yellow shirt is drinking water from a glass under a bright, sunny sky with the sun directly overhead. Battling the scorching heat wave, a Mickey Mouse mascot in a white suit and black bow tie stands to the left, smiling at Disney guests while they try to stay cool. — Credit: Inside The Magic

Disney World Guests Advised To Remain Indoors as Heat Index Reached 110

Friday, July 5, will go down in Florida history. It has one of the hottest days ever recorded, especially regarding the heat index, which most folks forget when visiting places like Walt Disney World Resort.

According to the Orlando Sentinal, the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for parts of Central Florida on Friday, forecasting a heat index of up to 110 degrees. The advisory was in effect from noon to 6 p.m. and covered the inland counties of Lake, Seminole, Orange, and Osceola.

“An increased risk for heat-related illness exists. This level of heat can affect anyone without adequate precautions,” the NWS stated.

The advisory urged people to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, avoid the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors. “Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” the advisory read.

Beachgoers were also warned of a high risk for rip currents in Volusia and northern Brevard County beaches. “Entering the surf is strongly discouraged. A moderate risk for rip currents exists to the south. Remember to swim near a lifeguard and never swim alone,” the NWS stated. Isolated showers with lightning were possible in the afternoon and early evening, mainly inland.

An emoji with a red face, sweat droplets, and its tongue sticking out is placed next to a fairytale castle under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds. The image conveys a sense of heat and exhaustion, as if the character desperately needs heat relief in a magical theme park setting. — Credit: Inside the Magic

2023 Saw Multitude of Heat-Related Deaths; 2024 Could Follow Suit

The NWS forecasts afternoon highs in the low to mid-90s with light winds under primarily to partly sunny skies. Overnight lows were forecast to be in the mid to upper 70s. The persistent muggy pattern was expected to continue into the weekend, with heat indices in the 102-107 range. More heat advisories were likely to be issued.

In data released by the PBS News site, the death certificates of more than 2,300 people who died in the United States last summer cited excessive heat as a factor, marking the highest number in 45 years, according to an Associated Press analysis of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. With May already breaking heat records, 2024 could be even deadlier.

Over two dozen doctors, public health experts, and meteorologists informed the AP that last year’s figure likely represents only a fraction of the confirmed death toll.

Coroner, hospital, ambulance, and weather records indicate that America’s heat and health crisis has reached unprecedented levels. “We can be confident saying that 2023 was the worst year we’ve had since we started having reliable reporting on that,” said Dr. John Balbus, director of the Office of Climate Change and Health Equity at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Image of a Disney castle with blue rooftops in the foreground and a colorful weather map with red and orange areas in the background. A yellow road sign with the text "BAD WEATHER AHEAD" is positioned to the right of the castle. — Credit: Inside The Magic

Stay Cool and Stay Safe During Bad Weather Related to Heat

Disney World guests can stay safe during excessive heat waves and high temperatures in Orlando by following these tips. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Disney World allows guests to bring their water bottles and provides free cups of water at any counter-service restaurant. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming. Find shade or air-conditioned areas often to cool down. Disney World has many indoor attractions, shows, and restaurants where guests can escape the heat. Consider using cooling towels, handheld fans, or misting fans. These products can provide immediate relief from the heat.

Take advantage of seating areas and rest periods, especially if traveling with children or older adults. Disney provides numerous benches and resting spots throughout the parks. By following these tips, Disney World guests can enjoy their visit while minimizing the risks associated with high temperatures and excessive heat.