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Credit: Inside The MagicDisney World vacations and travel plans were disrupted when all flights from this prominent Florida airport were grounded due to severe weather that will worsen as the week goes on.
The Sunshine State Braces for a Soaked Week—Just as Disney World Vacation Season Peaks
ORLANDO, FL — What was supposed to be another magical week at Walt Disney World has taken a sharp turn—literally—into stormy territory. As families descend upon the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” they may be greeted not just by Mickey Mouse but by a wave of heavy rains, strong winds, and a potential tropical threat.
On Monday, travelers across Florida were caught in a whirlwind of delays as flights from Jacksonville to Tampa were halted under a weather-related ground stop. Though that restriction ended by 7:45 p.m., it served as the first domino in a rapidly evolving forecast that could impact guests at Disney World and across Central Florida for days to come.
Inclement weather caused a ground stop on Monday for flights departing from Jacksonville to Tampa International Airport. – @WFLA on X
Inclement weather caused a ground stop on Monday for flights departing from Jacksonville to Tampa International Airport. https://t.co/LDOltMMKbM pic.twitter.com/hfuhL9aIDo
— WFLA NEWS (@WFLA) July 14, 2025
So, what exactly is brewing off Florida’s coast, and how worried should Disney fans be?
A Storm Is Brewing—And It Has a Name
According to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), a low-pressure system hovering off the Atlantic coast of Florida is under close watch. While the system is still disorganized, meteorologists say it has the potential to morph into the next tropical depression—or even a named storm, Tropical Storm Dexter—as it crosses the Florida Peninsula and enters the Gulf of Mexico mid-week.
8pm EDT July 14: An area of low pressure off the east Florida Peninsula coast (Invest #93L) now has a medium chance (30%2-day / 40%7-day) of becoming a tropical cyclone as it moves westward into northeastern portion of the Gulf. Regardless of formation, heavy rainfall could produce localized flash flooding over portions of Florida & the north-central Gulf coast through the mid-late part of this week. – @NHC_Atlantic
8pm EDT July 14: An area of low pressure off the east Florida Peninsula coast (Invest #93L) now has a medium chance (30%🟡2-day / 40%🟠7-day) of becoming a tropical cyclone as it moves westward into northeastern portion of the Gulf.
Regardless of formation, heavy rainfall could… pic.twitter.com/YFjaw1iVch
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) July 14, 2025
The chance of development sits at 40% over the next two to seven days, and while that may not sound high, the effects are already being felt statewide. From Jacksonville to Orlando, Floridians are experiencing multiple rounds of showers and embedded thunderstorms.
Disney guests, many of whom have saved up for months for their vacations, may now find themselves drenched and dodging puddles rather than hopping from ride to ride.
How Will This Impact Disney World Visitors?
While the storm’s ultimate strength remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the weather in Orlando will be messy this week.
The NHC warns that even if the system doesn’t intensify significantly, the peninsula is still in for 1 to 4.5 inches of rainfall, with some areas at risk of localized flash flooding. More severe storms could produce gusty winds between 40–50 mph.
For guests at Walt Disney World Resort, this means more than just a wet poncho situation. Attractions may temporarily close due to lightning or high winds, and outdoor shows could be canceled or rescheduled. Waterlogged walkways and longer wait times for indoor rides are also likely.
This serves as a stark reminder that hurricane season in Florida spans from June 1 to November 30—meaning this type of disruptive weather could happen again.
What Should Guests Do Now?
Disney has always prioritized guest safety and will continue to monitor weather conditions in real time. Guests are advised to:
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Keep an eye on My Disney Experience app notifications for ride closures or delays.
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Pack ponchos, waterproof footwear, and plastic bags to protect valuables.
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Consider shifting outdoor plans to earlier in the day when storm chances may be lower.
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Check flight updates regularly if traveling into or out of Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Despite the storm clouds, many indoor attractions will remain open. From Pirates of the Caribbean to Space Mountain, there are still plenty of dry, magical moments to experience—if you plan smart.
Why It Matters Beyond Just a Rainy Day for Disney World Travelers
This week’s weather alert highlights a growing concern for vacationers across the Southeast: the increasing unpredictability of tropical systems during peak travel seasons. Even weak or unorganized storms can throw off plans, delay flights, and add stress to what should be joyful memories.
While this particular system might not grow into a powerful hurricane, the threat of Tropical Storm Dexter is a timely reminder of how quickly conditions can change in Florida’s summer skies.
So, will this storm stay mild or take a stronger turn just as it hits the Gulf? Stay tuned—this is one forecast Disney fans won’t want to miss.