Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World has always made guest safety a top priority.
From its rigorous ride inspections to the way it handles severe weather events, Disney spares no effort in ensuring that every visitor has a secure and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s hurricanes, lightning storms, or even extreme heat advisories, the resort is proactive in warning guests and making necessary adjustments to keep them safe.
Now, Disney is taking another step in this direction by implementing a ban that affects guests across the resort. This latest restriction isn’t about theme park operations or attraction access, but rather a safety precaution due to Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns. With a new weather warning in effect, Disney is temporarily banning certain activities that could pose a danger to guests and the surrounding environment.
Red Flag Warning Issued for Disney World
On March 17, 2025, a Red Flag Warning was issued for Central Florida, including Walt Disney World. This warning is triggered when dry air, strong winds, and warm temperatures combine to create an extreme fire hazard. With gusts reaching up to 30 mph, the National Weather Service has advised that the risk of wildfires is exceptionally high.
Red Flag Warnings are not uncommon in Florida, particularly during dry seasons when rainfall is scarce. However, their impact on Disney World can be significant, especially for guests staying at resorts that feature outdoor recreational activities like grilling and campfires.
What This Ban Means for Guests
Effective immediately, a burn ban has been issued across the resort. This means that guests are prohibited from lighting campfires, using charcoal grills, or engaging in any activities that involve open flames. The restriction applies to all Disney-owned resort properties, but it is especially relevant for guests staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, where grilling and campfire activities are a popular part of the experience.
If you’re staying at Fort Wilderness or any Disney Vacation Club resort with grilling areas, you’ll need to make alternative dining plans until the ban is lifted. Gas grills at select locations may still be permitted, but guests should check with resort staff before use.
Additionally, Disney is urging guests to take extra precautions by properly disposing of cigarettes and avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass, as even the heat from a car engine can spark a fire under these conditions.
Could This Affect Nighttime Entertainment?
As of now, all nighttime entertainment, including fireworks at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, remains scheduled to continue as planned. However, guests should be aware that Disney reserves the right to modify or cancel these shows at any time if conditions worsen. Fireworks require careful handling even under normal circumstances, and with strong winds in the forecast, there’s always a possibility that Disney could adjust its plans.
This wouldn’t be the first time Disney has made last-minute changes due to weather-related concerns. Wind advisories have previously forced the cancellation of fireworks, outdoor stage shows, and even parade performances. Guests planning to catch the fireworks should keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app or ask a Cast Member for updates.
How Long Will the Ban Last?
For now, the burn ban is in place from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM on March 17, 2025, but it could be extended if conditions remain hazardous. Florida’s weather can change quickly, and if strong winds persist, guests should expect further advisories from both Disney and local authorities.
While this may be an inconvenience for some, safety comes first at Disney World. The last thing anyone wants is for a fun vacation to be disrupted by a preventable fire risk.
If you’re visiting Disney World this week, be mindful of these changes and plan accordingly. Stay safe, and enjoy your time at The Most Magical Place on Earth!
