Tropical Storm Isaias May Bring Rain to Disney World

Walt Disney World visitors could encounter periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms as Tropical Storm Isaias moves through the Gulf, though the resort had not announced a closure or shelter-in-place order as of Wednesday morning.

The National Hurricane Center upgraded the system to Tropical Storm Isaias early Wednesday, October 7. At 4 a.m. CDT, it had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and was moving east-northeast at 8 mph. The storm was centered about 285 miles west of Progreso, Mexico, and no coastal watches or warnings were in effect at that time.

Forecast guidance cited by Inside the Magic did not place Orlando in the path of a direct strike. The more immediate concern for Central Florida was unsettled weather: the National Weather Service forecast for Orlando called for a 90% chance of rain Wednesday, including showers and thunderstorms, with one to two inches of new rainfall possible. Rain and storm chances were expected to continue through the week.

Disney World can remain open in ordinary rain, but lightning and other dangerous conditions can lead to temporary suspensions at outdoor attractions. Rides with major outdoor sections, including Slinky Dog Dash, Test Track, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Expedition Everest, may be affected when thunderstorms move through. Outdoor entertainment can also be disrupted.

Disney has closed during major hurricanes in the past, including Hurricane Milton in 2024, but no comparable operational action had been announced for Isaias. Disney’s weather guidance notes that experiences may be delayed, rescheduled or canceled during tropical storms, hurricanes and other severe Central Florida weather.

Guests with upcoming visits should follow current updates from Disney, the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service, as tropical cyclone forecasts can change. For now, the reported concern at Walt Disney World is weather-related disruption rather than a confirmed resort shutdown.