Visitors to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, reported smoky skies and a strong smell of fire across multiple resort areas on Friday, particularly around EPCOT. The haze, which unsettled many guests, appears to be the result of a brushfire burning near Holopaw Groves Road, roughly 30 miles southeast of the popular theme park.
Several parkgoers took to social media to describe the conditions. One guest wrote on Facebook, “We are at Contemporary and it is hazy and a strong smell of smoke.” Others shared similar experiences at EPCOT and the Animal Kingdom Lodge, noting a distinct smoky odor and reduced visibility.
According to one visitor, an EPCOT cast member attributed the conditions to a “controlled burn” happening south of the Disney property, although no official confirmation of a controlled burn has been released.
Meanwhile, the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department addressed public concern in a Facebook post, confirming that a brushfire is currently active near Holopaw Groves Road. The fire is several miles southeast of St. Cloud and is not considered a threat to residents. However, authorities warned that smoke from the blaze could affect air quality and visibility in surrounding areas, especially for individuals with asthma or respiratory conditions.
“There is no danger to city residents, but there may be smoky conditions that limit visibility, or make breathing difficult,” the department stated.
Previous Fire Incident at EPCOT
This isn’t the first fire-related incident at EPCOT in recent weeks. On March 22, a fire broke out behind the France Pavilion during the park’s International Flower & Garden Festival. The blaze originated from a walk-in cooler and produced thick, black smoke visible to guests in the park. Emergency responders quickly extinguished the fire, and no injuries were reported. As a precaution, the pavilion was briefly evacuated.
Current Status
There have been no evacuations at Disney World linked to the current smoky conditions, and the theme parks remain open. Officials have not confirmed whether the brushfire’s smoke has reached the resort, though the distance makes a direct impact unlikely.
Guests are advised to remain aware of changing weather and air quality conditions, especially those with respiratory sensitivities.
Sources By Agencies
