Credit: Inside The MagicThe local government has issued an official statement that will directly impact Disney and Universal resorts, meaning guests will likely seek shelter over the next 12 to 24 hours. Here’s everything we know about this rare October storm.
Disney, Universal Parks Under Severe Threat as Local Government Issues Statement: Evacuations Likely
When you think of Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood, images of sunny skies, churros, and roller coasters come to mind—not tornado watches and flash floods. But this week, guests visiting Southern California’s most iconic theme parks are facing a reality that sounds more like a scene from a disaster movie than a Disney vacation.
For days, parkgoers have been sharing videos of dark, swirling clouds rolling over the palm-lined boulevards of Anaheim and the Hollywood Hills. In what meteorologists are calling a “rare October storm,” a powerful weather system has triggered multiple tornado watches across Los Angeles and Orange counties, the same areas home to Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.
So what does that mean for your park visit? And just how bad could this get for guests, locals, and the theme park operations that thrive on good weather and long lines? Here’s what you need to know before packing your Mickey ears or heading toward Hogwarts.
What’s Happening Right Now in Southern California
As of Tuesday, October 14, parts of Southern California remain under both a tornado watch and a flash flood warning. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential thunderstorms are sweeping across the region, bringing a dose of chaos to what’s usually a mild fall season.
The heaviest rain is expected to the east of downtown Los Angeles, but flood watches remain in effect for both Los Angeles and Orange counties—directly affecting the areas surrounding Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood.
California Region Gets Rare Tornado Warnings: ‘Expect Damage’
California Region Gets Rare Tornado🌪️ Warnings:
‘Expect Damage’
↪️https://t.co/QsCx0IHiMq— PsyberspaceSuperstar (@psybrspcsuprstr) October 14, 2025
In a Monday statement, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed that the city is taking proactive steps, saying officials have “bolstered the hillsides and vulnerable areas from potential debris flows in recent burn scar areas.” Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has warned residents to remain alert for rapidly changing conditions.
How to Experience the Parks Safely During the Storm
If you’re still planning to visit, it’s not all doom and gloom—but you’ll want to plan carefully. Both Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood remain open (for now), though certain attractions and outdoor shows may close temporarily due to lightning or heavy rain.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
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Pack smart: Bring ponchos, waterproof shoes, and an extra layer for when temperatures drop.
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Use the apps: The Disneyland and Universal mobile apps will notify you of attraction closures or wait time changes in real time.
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Seek indoor fun: Prioritize indoor attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
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Arrive early: Crowds tend to thin out during poor weather, meaning shorter lines for popular rides before potential closures.
Hidden Hacks Only Locals Know
Frequent parkgoers know that bad weather can actually mean a rare chance to enjoy the parks with fewer crowds. Locals recommend heading straight to covered dining areas like Flo’s V8 Café in Disney California Adventure or Three Broomsticks at Universal’s Wizarding World for cozy comfort food.
Another insider tip: check for rain refunds or re-entry offers. While rare, Universal Studios Hollywood has occasionally provided rain checks for guests affected by severe weather, though these are typically issued on a case-by-case basis.
Finally, if lightning strikes within a few miles, some rides like Incredicoaster or Jurassic World – The Ride will close temporarily—but that’s often when you’ll see the lowest wait times elsewhere in the park.
Why This Storm Matters to Fans
For many fans, this storm isn’t just about bad weather—it’s about how unpredictable events can disrupt long-awaited vacations and annual passes that cost hundreds of dollars. It also highlights how vulnerable even the most magical places are to real-world challenges.
In recent years, California has faced everything from wildfires to record-breaking heat waves—but tornado watches? That’s something few parkgoers ever expected to hear. With social media now flooded with dramatic videos of lightning flashing over Sleeping Beauty Castle and guests sprinting for cover on the Hollywood backlot, this week has become an unforgettable chapter in SoCal theme park history.
Whether you’re planning to visit or just watching the skies from afar, this rare October storm is a reminder that even the most magical destinations aren’t immune to nature’s surprises. Stay safe, check for weather alerts before heading out, and keep your ponchos handy—because this week, the real thrill might not be on the rides.