A strong to severe weather warning is in effect for Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort on March 16, 2026. Thunderstorms with damaging winds, hail, heavy rain, and possible lightning are forecast between 1 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to affect the Central Florida area, including Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Disney Springs, and Universal Orlando Resort, from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026. The most intense conditions are anticipated mid-afternoon, coinciding with peak park hours, when temperatures will feel coldest between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Damaging wind gusts of 45-55 mph are forecast, with a 15% chance of gusts over 60 mph. Quarter-sized hail is possible, along with a 5% chance of one-inch hail, periods of heavy rain, and frequent lightning. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, though no watch or warning is currently in effect, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Tampa Bay. The agency posted on X: “Thunderstorms will move across the Florida peninsula today, with strong to severe thunderstorms possible. The main threats will be damaging wind gusts and hail, but an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Be sure to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings! ⛈️ #FLwx.” Walt Disney World Resort may close outdoor attractions, hotel pools, and other experiences during lightning or high winds. Guests are advised to seek indoor attractions or shelter in hotel rooms and common areas. This event signals the start of another cold front following a chilly winter, with wind chills in the mid-to-upper 30s by early Tuesday morning and daytime temperatures 20-25 degrees lower than Monday. Warmer conditions are expected later in the week, potentially reaching 80 degrees by the weekend.
