Walt Disney World Guests Experience Park Closings and Tornado Warnings

Tornado warnings, mechanical breakdowns, and park closings, oh my!  These are just a few of the things Walt Disney World guests have been faced with the past couple of days.

Sunday afternoon brought Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, Tornado Warnings, and Wind Advisories to the Orlando area.  This would make for some difficult travel to and from Orlando as well as difficult park touring. 

Blizzard Beach experienced mechanical breakdowns and had to close on Sunday, but eventually opened on Monday.

On Monday, Magic Kingdom closed mid-day due to reaching capacity.  The park re-opened entry a few hours later.

Also on Monday, Typhoon Lagoon closed due to cold temperatures in the area.

So, how do guests either avoid or make the best of circumstances like those mentioned above and still enjoy their vacation?

• Pack appropriately.  Ponchos, umbrellas, layers for sudden cold snaps—even at the end of March, and at least two pairs of shoes so there is still a pair to wear while the others dry out.
• Get up and out early to head to your park.  Guest heading to the Magic Kingdom on Monday who had a leisurely morning, were denied entry as the park was already at capacity.  Guests arriving at or before park opening, made the most of the morning and were the most likely the ones leaving to make room for late arrivers.  Yes, I know it is vacation but if you want a lazy vacation, head to the beach.  Walt Disney World is fun, but it requires some effort.
• Have an alternative plan.  If a park closes, such as Blizzard Beach, don’t let it ruin your day by having an alternative plan in mind.  Play a round of miniature golf at nearby WinterSummerland, head to Downtown Disney, or explore your resort. 
• Keep an eye on the weather.  It can take some doing, but figure out what channel weather forecasts are broadcast and check it out before heading to the parks or better yet, the night before.  If the forecast calls for rain, know that Studios and EPCOT are some of your best choices.  If it is just rain—no lightening—a trip to the water park or pool may be just the ticket, as those will stay open as long as there is no lightening and you may experience diminished crowds.

Know that a little rain can fall in any vacation and be prepared.  As I have said before, there are inherent risks in any travel but being prepared is half the battle; your disposition is the other half.