If you’re from anywhere in Florida, you know it rains almost every day during the rainy season. If you’re not from Florida… it rains almost every day during the rainy season. People visiting for the first time often freak out when they check the local forecast about a week before their trip because it shows rain. Here’s our tips for handling rain and your central Florida vacation.
Not to get too technical, but if there’s a chance of rain of over 30%, it’s likely it will rain at some point during your day. Here’s what to expect when it starts raining during your Universal trip.
When is the rainy season?
Florida, as opposed to most of the rest of the country, has two primary seasons, rainy and dry. Temps throughout the year stay moderately between the low 70s (Nov – March) and the low 90s (April – October). With the rainy season comes a very tropical climate which includes hot temps and high levels of humidity. Beginning in the middle of May, the weather patterns begin to shift. Sea breezes come in off each coast line and where they collide, the rain begins. This can happen at a coast line, the middle of the state or anywhere in between. This wet pattern runs from Mid-May through the middle of October, when it begins to dry out.
When will it rain and for how long?
During the rainy season, it is highly likely it will rain at some point during the day. While it can occur at almost any time during the day, the highest rain chances tend to occur between 3pm and 7pm. During these afternoon showers (and sometimes thunderstorms), showers typically last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. One thing to remember, is that this does NOT mean your entire day will be washed out.
If I am visiting Universal Studios (USO) or Islands of Adventure (IOA) and it rains….
That’s right… nothing happens. Many people have asked if they issue a rain-check or some sort of credit or refund. Absolutely NOT! No! Don’t even think about it. All days are rain or shine so enjoy the liquid sunshine if you get some.
What happens at USO or IOA when it rains?
This is a great question. Depending on what it’s doing outside will determine what happens. At IOA, the water rides almost always close temporarily as the rain gets heavier. If the rain shower turns into a thunderstorm, ALL outdoor rides and roller coasters will close. This is policy for everyone’s safety. Lightning has amazing range so if there is any indication (from special sensors) of lightning within a specific radius (thought to be about 15 miles), the rides will preemptively shut down. Once the lightning has cleared the area, a time period of 30 minutes must pass before the rides begin their opening procedures again. This is to ensure everyone’s safety. While frustrating, there are plenty of attractions that continue while it rains and storms.
How do I plan my day if it’s going to rain?
This is simple, plan like it won’t and adjust if it does and begins to close rides. The reality of it all is that most days in central Florida begin clear, warm and humid. This means that at 9am, the show goes on! Expect fantastic, hot and dry weather for most of the day. Get your rides in and make sure there are a few indoor rides or shows that you haven’t done in case it does rain.
When do hurricanes happen?
Central Florida is no stranger to hurricane and tropical systems dumping tons of rain on the area. Hurricane season technically begins June 1st and runs through November 30th, with the peak occurring the first three weeks of September. Even though this is designated as “hurricane season”, know that there have been named Atlantic storms in every month of the year, so the chance does exist for a storm at any time. Check out our page on hurricane policies with Universal Orlando Resort.
In short, between the months of May and October, expect rain… everyday. Some days will bring heavier rain than others. Be prepared to go indoors or have the right items in case you do get caught in the rain. Either way, have fun and make the most of it. You’ll thank me later!
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