Historic Southern California Storm Forcing Disneyland To Close Its Doors on Christmas Eve

Some people dream of a white Christmas, but those living in Southern California never thought that they’d have to deal with something like this. According to the National Weather Service, Southern California is facing dangerous flood conditions due to an “atmospheric river” that is expected to dump over four inches of rain in the area on Christmas Eve alone. This is in addition to the rain that has already occurred over the last few days.

Based on morning guidance, the powerful winter storm is still on track to bring SIGNIFICANT weather issues to #SoCal.

Be prepared and listen for the latest forecast information. #CAwx https://t.co/LiKAK5pzeg

— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) December 23, 2025

As a result of these dangerous conditions, Disneyland announced that it will be closing early on Christmas Eve, one of the busiest days at the parks. Disneyland Park will close at 11 p.m. instead of midnight, and Disney’s California Adventure will close at 9 p.m. instead of 10 p.m.

Disney has not made any announcement about potential refunds for guests, but according to its website, “hours can be altered” due to severe weather, which is a nice way of saying that guests shouldn’t expect any compensation for the lost hour. During Christmas week, Disneyland tickets reach their highest prices, with a one-day ticket costing $224.

The storm is expected to continue through Saturday, which could impact park hours throughout the week, including on Christmas Day. Disney has not yet announced any additional changes to its park hours for days other than Christmas Eve.

Parts of Orange County, where Disneyland is located, are under mandatory evacuation orders due to the storm. Wildfires impacted those areas, and authorities are concerned about the potential for mudslides with this much rain coming.

Here is a thread about the upcoming storms:
A flood watch is in effect for widespread heavy rain late tonight through Wednesday. Totals have trended down a bit in San Diego, but heavy rain bands may locally increase totals above what is shown. Slight chance of thunderstorms! pic.twitter.com/8OJPFr4hP2

— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) December 23, 2025

It hasn’t rained at Disneyland over Christmas since 2019. According to the National Weather Service, the record rainfall on Christmas Day is 3.01 inches, achieved in 1884. That record is expected to be broken this year.

The tens of thousands of guests heading to Disneyland in the coming days can expect their Christmas vacations to be disrupted by this massive storm. Be careful and stay safe this holiday season.

Are you planning on being at Disneyland this Christmas? Let us know and send us your photos in the comments.