Near-Record Heat Hits Walt Disney World Today With 100-105 Degree Heat Index on May 20

28 days ago in "Severe Weather impacts to Walt Disney World"

Posted: Tuesday May 20, 2025 7:20am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Central Florida is baking under near-record heat today (May 20, 205), with Orlando forecast to hit 96°F—matching the daily record high from 1935. If you’re visiting Walt Disney World, be prepared for intense heat and limited rain relief.

Forecast Overview

  • Temperatures: Mid 90s across the interior, including the theme parks. Highs of 94–96°F expected across Kissimmee, Orlando, and Sanford.
  • Heat Index: Feels-like temperatures will peak between 100°F and 105°F this afternoon.
  • Rain Chance: Just a 20% chance of an isolated shower or storm late in the day, mainly near and east of I-4.

For visitors to the Walt Disney World theme parks, plan your day accordingly to ensure safety and comfort where possible:

  • Seek Shade: Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
  • Stay Hydrated by drinking plenty of water, using water bottle refill stations, and asking for cups of water at any quick-service restaurant.
  • Adjust Plans: Consider visiting indoor attractions during peak heat hours.

Where To Find Water Bottle Refill Stations At Walt Disney World

Overnight and Outlook

  • Tonight: Lows in the low to mid 70s. Slight cooling, but still warm and humid overnight.
  • Wednesday–Thursday: The heat continues tomorrow with similar temps. A weak cold front arrives Thursday, bringing a slight chance of rain and a bit more relief by Friday and the weekend.
Discuss on the Forums

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    Ayla26 days ago

    Let me tell you, it was DEPRESSING to go from 90's and sunny in Charleston to 44 and cloudy at home in Wisconsin. 😭😭😭

    Lilofan26 days ago

    A former DLR President was asked what is the big difference between working at WDW and DLR, the exec replied “ in DL I don’t sweat as much “.

    Lilofan26 days ago

    Snowbirds enjoy the glorious FL weather to include wearing a sweater at times on a breezy day ( ie from Nov-April )

    Jrb197926 days ago

    Locals yes but those on vacation don't cancel. I love going to parks when it's hot. Most stay away so rides have low waits.

    Dranth26 days ago

    Oh, I am sure many with planned trips don't. I have no delusions that I am not in the minority on that one, but it does happen and I bet enough locals skip an extra hot day to have an actual impact.

    DisneyDreamer0826 days ago

    It has been a cold & rainy spring in Massachusetts. We are looking forward to some warmer weather.

    Minthorne26 days ago

    Now we know why Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth.

    Jrb197926 days ago

    I don't doubt it happens but nowhere near as much as being let on. There is no way if you have a trip next week and they announce a heat warning today you are going to cancel.

    larryz26 days ago

    There's a reason why you see so many snowbirds every year...

    Dranth26 days ago

    As a resident of the South Eastern US, my heat tolerance has decreased with each additional year I have lived here. At this point I won't even try to go to Orlando outside of the late October - March range. The beach can be doable when it is hot with the ocean breeze but even then I tend to avoid the Summer months.

    Lilofan26 days ago

    Case in point we visited baby care / first aid at MGM back in the day where we could get complimentary aspirin. Thee was a room with approx 12 cots with guests sprawled out trying to cool themselves down from heat exhaustion. The FL heat not only can make you weak it can also be fatal.

    Ayla26 days ago

    We spent last weekend in Charleston/Folly Beach. It was in the 90's and sunny most days. Cancelling never even entered our minds. About half of my 40+ WDW trips have been May-September. It's Florida. It's hot and it's humid half the year.

    Dranth26 days ago

    Yes. I have and I would again. I don't need to go on vacation to be miserable. I can do that anywhere for free.

    surfsupdon27 days ago

    Water Park question with the heat: Blizzard Beach has transfers at AK unless you stay at All Stars, AKL, or Coronado. They have direct service to/from the park. Which logistically makes sense. (I saw this on my March trip). With Typhoon now open, do any Resorts offer direct transportation or does everybody transfer at Springs??? Thank you!

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