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Lightning Strikes Iconic EPCOT Attraction

EPCOT in Walt Disney World Resort
Credit: Flickr/ Tasayu Tasnaphun

A popular EPCOT attraction reportedly was struck by lightning!

Walt Disney World Resort is known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” Disney World is more than just a theme park; it’s a place where cherished memories are made, where imaginations are ignited, and where the child in all of us comes alive. With its four magical parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—Disney World continues to be Park of enchantment and entertainment. Whether you’re young or young at heart, a visit to Disney World promises an immersive, extraordinary experience that will leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

castle storm

Credit: Disney

When it rains at Disney World, the Parks, and their operations adjust to ensure that Guests can still have a magical experience despite the inclement weather. In the event of heavy rain or thunderstorms, certain outdoor attractions, shows, and parades may be temporarily closed or modified for safety reasons. This is done to protect Guests and ensure a seamless experience.

Disney World employs lightning detection systems that help identify when lightning is present in the area. Safety protocols are activated when lightning is detected within a certain radius to ensure Guest safety. These protocols may include the temporary suspension of outdoor attractions, shows, and outdoor activities until the storm passes.

walt disney world epcot night time ball spaceship earth drunk

Credit: Disney

Disney World is home to a wide array of indoor attractions and shows, which become popular during rainy weather. Guests seek refuge in these indoor venues, such as dark rides, theaters, and 3D experiences, allowing them to continue enjoying the Park’s offerings while staying dry from classics like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Soarin’ Around the World, and many more attractions. Disney World Guests can also head to immersive experiences like Mickey’s PhilharMagic, and these indoor attractions provide temporary shelter from the rain.

Donald duck rainstorm

Credit: Disney

In a social media post, Guests talk about how Spaceship Earth was reportedly struck by lightning during a storm. While this is a scary sight to see, EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth, Cinderella Castle, and several other attractions tend to get struck from time to time. Disney has lightning rods all over the Parks.

“It gets hit all the time, the same with the castle. They were built to for it, so it’s nothing to worry about,” one Guest said.

Disney World Storm

Credit: Disney Dining

According to the Disney World Website, tickets and packages at Walt Disney World Resort are nontransferable and nonrefundable. However, while Guests cannot cancel or get a refund for a tickets or package, you may be able to change the date of your unused tickets.

Disney World does have a Hurricane Exception. In the event that a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within seven days of your scheduled arrival date, Guests may be able to reschedule or cancel your ticket or vacation package.

Also, some open-air events and dining offerings may be rescheduled or canceled in the event of severe or inclement weather—please inquire at the time of Guests ticket purchase. Water parks and certain events, experiences, and attractions are also subject to rehabilitation, seasonal and weather closures.

About Brittni Ward

Brittni is a Disney and Universal fan; one of her favorite things at both parks is collecting popcorn buckets. While at Disney World Resort, Brittni meets the princesses and rides Kilimanjaro Safaris. At Universal, Brittni enjoys the Minions and watching Animal Actors on Location! When not at Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando, Brittni spends time with her family and pets.