One thing that will pretty much always be unpredictable in Florida is the weather.

Sure, sometimes rides surprise us by going down, but at least we can kinda deal with that. But weather? Well, it’s notoriously finicky, but this weekend, we actually had a little bit of a warning. Recently, we heard that some bad weather was headed our way this weekend. Well, we’ve got an update on that weather.

On December 15th, meteorologists were already warning Floridians about a storm that was set to come in over the weekend. The storm is expected to bring a LOT of rain and gusty winds, but it could also bring more severe weather, including tornados. At the time, the Storm Prediction Center had upgraded the Orlando area to a level 2 out of 5 risk for scattered strong to severe storms. 

This morning the SPC expanded our higher threat level to include just about our entire area… and I wanted to post the updated image- before things get too feisty.

Think of this as a normal summer afternoon storm- BUT- with a little extra energy upstairs in the atmosphere. pic.twitter.com/fjAxMJGIif

— Eric Burris (@EricBurrisWESH) December 16, 2023

Well, as of this morning, according to WESH, the storm system is now expected to bring tropical storm-like conditions to Florida, including wind, heavy rain, localized flooding, and coastal issues. Ahead of the storm, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has activated the Florida State Guard. Saturday through Sunday morning are now “First Warning Weather” days due to the storm’s potential.

Good morning friends-

It’s a ’First Warning Weather Day’ because the rains that overspread our area today end up turning strong late day through the overnight-

We’ll be watching… pic.twitter.com/96GbhMdVv1

— Eric Burris (@EricBurrisWESH) December 16, 2023

 

The timing has the storms getting serious around 4PM on Saturday and continuing through 6AM on Sunday. Some Florida counties are also already under a Flood Watch. The tornado threat is expected to begin Saturday evening and continue through Sunday morning.

Showed this on 'Coffee Talk' today, and I wanted to share it here.

While the rains are already moving in… the real energy doesn't get here until later. Here's a look at when.

Notice late today into overnight- the energy is here. THAT is when there's a severe threat… pic.twitter.com/C9fzdWjH7H

— Eric Burris (@EricBurrisWESH) December 16, 2023

So, what should you do if you’re in Disney World this weekend? Well, stay weather alert. Download a weather app and make sure your phone is set up to get severe weather alerts. Also, know that outdoor rides will close in the event of bad weather (or if bad weather is on the way). The Skyliner will also close, but buses should be running to Skyliner hotels to and from the parks.

Also, if you haven’t hit the parks yet, pack that rain gear. If anything, you can probably count on getting wet at some point during the weekend. In the event of severe weather at Disney World, listen to Cast Members who will make sure you know where to go if you need to seek shelter from a severe storm. They’re there to help you, so pay attention.

Disney officially canceled the December 16th Jollywood Nights holiday party due to the impending weather, and guests have been issued refunds. For more information on what happens when Disney cancels a special event, click HERE!

Finally, if you have a flight scheduled through Orlando International Airport, make sure you stay updated on flight delays and cancelations. You can do that by downloading the MCO app, as well as your airline’s app. Bad weather can and will affect flights, so again, being weather-aware will come in handy.

We’ll keep an eye on the situation and keep you updated, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

A Complete List of the Attractions that Close When There’s Bad Weather in Disney World

Have you ever been to Disney World during severe weather? What did you do? Let us know in the comments!