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Top Planning for Universal Studios Florida Weather

When planning your trip to Universal Studios, Florida, you'll have lots of decisions to make. Where will you stay in Orlando, will you chose one of the Universal Resorts, how many days will you spend in Universal, and the other amazing Orlando theme parks like Walt Disney World and SeaWorld.

People often overlook appropriately planning for the Universal Studios Weather. Florida is beautiful and reasonably temperate year-round, but there is seasonality and a big difference in temperature between steamy July and refreshing but cool December and January. Florida has a robust rainy season and a hurricane season. Be "in the know" about this so you can be informed about travel insurance, how to dress for the weather, the best time for you to make your trip to Universal Studios, Florida, and how to plan for a rainy day. Our guide has all the tips you'll need to prepare for Universal Studios weather like a pro.

families enjoying amenities at Villatel Village in Orlando FL

What are average temperatures and rainfall for Universal Orlando?

Some general guidelines for what to expect for weather in Orlando in the summer can count on HOT days and high humidity. Afternoon showers are not unusual but will pass quickly. If you aren't a fan of the heat, it's best to avoid July and August. The average humidity in Florida runs around 74 degrees. If you're not accustomed to high humidity, it will feel much warmer than the actual temperature. 

The temperatures from November through March will drop and be much cooler and less humid. There are plenty of sources to check out average temperatures at Universal Studios. We also recommend you monitor the weather trends as your vacation approaches. A good start is always theweatherchannel.com, and you can also check out timeanddate.com for a 14-day weather forecast of Universal Studios Florida. Once you have arrives in Orlando, checking the forecast frequently will ensure you are appropriately dressed for the weather and that you plan your itinerary accordingly. Weathercrave.com will share with you the weather forecast for Universale studios Florida right out of nearby Dr. Phillips. 

Below we share some average temperatures and rainfall for some of the most popular months for your planning purposes for Universal Studios weather.

January - Average temperatures range between 50 - 71 F. It is one of the coldest months and one of the driest. Be sure to pack for and dress in layers to be best prepared for temperature changes throughout the day. 

February - Early in the month is usually cooler, with warming toward the end of February. Rainfall is still low, but dressing in layers still makes sense. 

March - March brings out the spring break crowds with warming temperatures running 57F- 77F. It is pleasant and warm enough to enjoy the outdoor activities. Bring a jacket for nighttime activities.

April - April will bring warmer temperatures ranging between 62-82F and 77F. Get ready for the crowds, but this is a great time to enjoy the many outdoor activities and attractions Orlando offers and the water rides and water parks and resort pools. 

May - The temperature will be climbing to as high as 99 F. Bring ice water and wear comfortable and breathable clothing.

 June - June is the beginning of summer and the start of the rainy season. The average rain doubles, and there's a good chance of afternoon showers. They last between 30 minutes and a couple of hours. See tips before for dealing with rainy days. Bring an umbrella and poncho. If you forget, ponchos are available in the parks for purchase. You may need a spare pair of shoes too! 

July and August - Hot, hot, hot! Temperatures can reach 100F. Take it slow, and dress comfortably. Be ready for daily thunderstorms.

September - September is considered a fall month but can still be warm. The rainy season is now beginning to end, but afternoon storms are still expected this time of year. 

October - October can be really pleasant with cooling days and nights. Shorts still work during the day, and the rainfall is lighter. You may have temperatures in the upper 70's even at night.

November is a favorite month for many. The temperatures run in the 70's. and it is great weather to explore the attractions and parks. Aside from Thanksgiving week, the crowds are still low too. Another great time to visit. Be sure to pack and bring along a light jacket for when the sun goes down. 

December - Temperatures fluctuate significantly in December, but this can be a great month in Orlando. Pleasant, cooler temperatures and low rainfall, along with small crowds the first part of the month, make December a great time to visit. Click for more on Orlando Weather in Florida.

What do to on a rainy day in Universal? 

The fun at Universal Studios doesn't stop when the rain begins! Whether it a full day of rain or an afternoon shower, there is still tons to do. Here are some tips. Take out your poncho, or buy one in the park for $10.00 and carry on. Bring your umbrella and a trash bag to stash it in after the rain stops. 

Wear quick-dry clothing vs. heavy, thick clothes like jeans. Water-resistant shoes are more comfortable and will limit slipping. Rent a small locker to stay your extra stuff in. 

Afternoon showers pass quickly. You may want to hop in line for the more popular rides like Hogwarts Express just as the rain starts. When it clears, you're all set.

Visit Islands of Adventure first. Why? They have lots more outside rides to maximize your time there before any rains hit. When the rains strike, head over to Universal Studios Orlando, where there are many indoor attractions. 

Get to the parks early to get as much "dry" time in as possible before any potential rain showers. You may want to take advantage of Early Park Admission if you are visiting in the height of the rainy season. Check out other tips for When To Visit Universal Florida 

Take a break back when the clouds roll in and head back to the hotel in the afternoon for a rest or to use some of your hotel amenities, like the 10-lane bowling alley at Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This is a good time for dining or shopping too. Before you head out to the parks, do your research and make a list of the indoor activities and attractions. 

You can always wait it out. The crowds will often head out. Be smart and hold off - hang out in Carkitt Market, and outdoor covered area or duck into Monstgers' Cafe. 

If you expect a full day of rain, plan in advance for the indoor possibilities and be first to get there. 

Here are some:

  • Revenge of the Mummy
  • E.T. Adventure
  • Men in Black Alien Attack
  • The Simpsons Ride
  • Transformers: The Ride-3D
  • Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
  • Shrek 4-D
  • Universal's Horror Make-Up Show

Don't forget about Islands of Adventure:

  • The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Skull Island: Reign of Kong
  • The Cat in the Hat
  • Jurassic Discovery Center
  • When is hurricane season?

Hurricane season in Florida starts on June 1 and lasts through the end of November. It is not typical for the Orlando area to take a direct hit from a hurricane, but a hurricane elsewhere in the state can impact your flights and can bring high winds and more rain than usual. The theme parks take any hurricane threat seriously and may close outdoor attractions when the threats of high winds, heavy rain, or lightning are high. The National Hurricane Center and NOAA keep an eye on approaching storms and provide frequent updates on storm strength and direction. 

When making your plans, be sure to ask about a hotel, airline, and park policies regarding closures due to hurricanes or other storms. They often have a started policy of refunds, and they moderate them depending upon the severity of the storm and the length of closures and delays. Check with your credit card company about a potential trip cancellation policy you may have, and take the time to investigate and evaluate Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance policies. Your vacation to Universal Studios is a significant investment, and it may be worth it to cover that with a Travel Insurance policy.

bowling alley at Villatel Orlando vacation rentals

What is Universal Studios' severe weather policy?

Here is Universal's severe weather policy taken directly from their website. There are many more terms and conditions, so be sure you review those entirely before making your final travel decision.

Severe Weather Policy

Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations™ Severe Weather Policy

"In the event that a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center or a state of emergency is declared for the Orlando area or in your place of residence, within seven days of your arrival, you can contact our team in advance to reschedule or cancel your Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations Package, hotel room only accommodations and Universal Orlando theme park tickets booked directly with Universal Orlando, without any cancellation or change fees imposed. If you have purchased airline tickets as part of your Universal Parks and Resorts Vacations package, you may still be subject to cancellation and change fees assessed by those airlines.

If you have purchased Universal Orlando products and services through third-party suppliers, travel agents, or tour operators, please contact them directly for information regarding their cancellation or change policies and procedures. The policy does not apply to certain special events, dining experiences, or group-related bookings.

We want you to feel safe and will work with you directly to best accommodate your needs. If you have additional questions or need to change or cancel your travel plans, please contact a member of our Guest Contact Center team by calling 877-801-9720." 

Here is Universal's Rain Check Policy

"Universal Studios often gives rain checks during major rainfalls. If you see over 1/8 inch of rain before 2 pm, you can go to Guest Relations to request a rain check. You can get then a free return visit that's good for 30 days. 

At Universal Studios, most of the rides are housed inside, which means there's nothing for you to worry about. Continue with your plan and have fun trying all the rides. 

Remember, most of the rides are indoors, so you probably don't need to be concerned.