Credit: Inside The MagicUniversal’s Epic Universe had to close down all of its outdoor rides on July 19, 2025, as a first-time dangerous situation unfolded.
Epic Universe Closes Down All Outdoor Attractions: Here’s Why
Guests screamed—not from thrill rides, but from shock—as digital warning signs across Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe lit up with a message no one expected: “All outdoor attractions currently closed due to severe weather.”
On the night of July 18, 2025, just two months after the park’s highly anticipated May 22 grand opening, Universal was forced to make a difficult, first-in-history decision—shutting down nearly every major ride due to lightning threats from a tropical system barreling across Florida.
For fans and first-timers alike, this wasn’t just a minor hiccup—it was a wake-up call for what hurricane season might mean at Florida’s most ambitious theme park yet. This article breaks down what happened, why it matters, and how you can prepare to still have the time of your life—even if the skies turn dark.
What Happened at Epic Universe on July 18?
Universal’s Epic Universe was designed to be a day-to-night immersive destination, featuring thousands of light fixtures, glowing lands, and a majority of rides outdoors—capitalizing on Florida’s year-round warm weather. But last night, this became its Achilles’ heel.
As a tropical disturbance moved through central Florida, lightning strikes in the area triggered Universal’s emergency protocols.
Without hesitation, the park shut down all outdoor attractions, including headliners in Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Super Nintendo World, and even parts of the Dark Universe. Guests were quickly ushered under covered areas and indoor queues, while park-wide digital boards updated in real-time.
Weather advisory in Epic Universe information displays. Astronomica is among the attractions that closes when lightning is nearby. – @bioreconstruct on X
Weather advisory in Epic Universe information displays. Astronomica is among the attractions that closes when lightning is nearby. pic.twitter.com/lcmhwz3RAu
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) July 19, 2025
A Universal spokesperson confirmed, “The safety of our guests and Team Members is always our top priority. With lightning detected nearby, we made the call to temporarily close outdoor attractions.”
How to Still Enjoy Epic Universe During Severe Weather
Weather can turn quickly in Florida—especially in July through November, peak hurricane season. Here’s how to make the most of your day if storms strike:
-
Arrive early: Outdoor rides are most reliable in the morning before storms typically roll in.
-
Download the Universal Orlando app: Enable notifications for real-time updates and closures.
-
Prioritize indoor attractions: Certain rides, shops, and restaurants remain open—especially those in the Ministry of Magic and Darkmoor (Dark Universe).
-
Watch the radar: Use your phone’s weather app or radar tools to stay ahead of lightning and rain.
-
Pack a poncho or light jacket: Rain gear is overpriced in the park—buy it at a local drugstore before your trip.
Insider Hacks: Storm-Proofing Your Visit Like a Local
Veteran parkgoers know that Florida’s weather is predictable in its unpredictability. Here are a few hidden tricks to stay ahead of the storm:
-
Celestial Park’s Stargazer Lounge stays open during rain—a great hideout with drinks and atmosphere.
-
Darkmoor’s queue for Monsters Unchained is a lengthy, immersive experience mostly indoors—perfect for riding out the storm.
-
Catch the storm from a covered vantage like the Super Nintendo World pipe tunnel entrance—it’s dry, photogenic, and often overlooked.
-
Weather closures may lead to re-entry passes or Guest Services perks—ask kindly if your day was impacted.
Why This Shutdown Matters to Fans and the Future of the Park
Epic Universe was built to be light-forward, night-forward, and outdoor-focused. While this creates jaw-dropping visuals and Instagram-worthy moments after sunset, it also presents new operational challenges during Florida’s volatile weather season.
The July 18 lightning shutdown marks the first of what could be many closures as hurricane season progresses. But fans shouldn’t panic—this shows Universal’s commitment to safety and agility in adapting to Florida’s climate.
The event underscores a key truth: even the most magical lands are still in Florida, and with that comes real-world realities. But with planning, flexibility, and the right hacks, Epic Universe can still be a dream—even during storm season.