Lightning Strike Sparks a Fire in Universal's Harry Potter Area

Summer storms in Florida can be fierce. Unfortunately, one storm brought with it dangerous lightning strikes that caused problems at Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Summer Storms in Florida Theme Parks

Rain doesn't have to put a damper on your good time when you visit theme parks in Central Florida, such as Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort. But sometimes dangerous conditions arise.

Everyone knows that hurricane season brings with it dangerous winds and heavy storms. But, some people forget that lightning strikes can also pose a problem.

Fortunately, the theme parks are well-equipped with lightning rods for everyone's safety. You might notice them dotting the buildings. And there are safety precautions in place that close rides down for lightning. However, every now and then, something wild happens anyway.

Lightning Sparks Fire at Universal Orlando

During a July 29 storm, lightning struck a tree at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Universal Orlando Resort. The strike hit a tree in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and it was too close to where people waited in the queue for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Hogwarts for comfort. If you are familiar with the queue, the part impacted the most was the herbology area.

The tree caught fire, and it was severe enough to activate fire alarms! Guests had to be evacuated from the area immediately.

Fortunately, the fire department responded to the emergency. Responders had the situation under control quickly.

After the Fire

Fortunately, there were no injuries reported relating to the fire. It may have been an intense and frightening experience for those who were in the area, but they all got out of it unharmed.

And, there was no damage to the attraction itself. Operations could resume as soon as it was safe.

You can see footage of the scary fire posted by USA Today here. There is some profanity censored, so watch with caution.

Fortunately, no one was reported injured.

This is not the only Universal fire reported recently. Two Epic Universe buses also went up in flames recently, and you can read about it HERE if you wish.

Have you ever had to deal with a theme park emergency? Let us know. And be sure to share the news with the Universal fans in your life.