Universal and CityWalk are Closed due to Extreme Conditions

Both Universal and CityWalk will remain closed today amid Extreme Conditions. Here are all the details surrounding the closure.

Wildfire

Many of our readers may already be aware of the fires threatening California. The Los Angeles area has been ravaged with incomprehensible destruction from the fires.

The fires have devastated areas like Malibu and Pacific Palisades. They have also taken their toll on Altadena, a community that has served as home to many Disney Imagineers over the years.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency as the majority of the fires remain uncontained. President Joe Biden also approved a major disaster declaration and the Defense Department is sending resources. Moreover, first responders from neighboring states have been deployed to help.

Universal Hollywood Responds

Of course, the fires have also taken a toll on businesses, including local theme parks. The unpredictable winds and fires pose a significant threat to visitors at this time.

Yesterday both Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk were closed out of an abundance of caution. Universal released a statement saying, “Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will be closed today as a result of the extreme winds and fire conditions.”

And that closure has now been extended to today: January 9, 2025. Neither Universal Studios Orlando nor CityWalk will be open today. We appreciate Universal for prioritizing safety at this time.

Reopening Timeline

While the wind conditions are expected to improve overnight, there is enough certainty for a reopening timeline. Universal states, “We continue to assess the situation and are directing guests to visit our website for updates.”

Universal will continue to assess the situation and provide updates.

Our hearts are with those at the center of the devastation and with those who must heal in the aftermath to come.