Orlando, Fla.

A dramatic smoke plume overshadowing the iconic Walt Disney World Resort this past Saturday was the result of a fire in a walk-in cooler, as confirmed by an official Disney representative. The incident occurred behind the scenes of the France Pavilion, a beloved spot at the resort's Epcot theme park, part of the famed World Showcase.

Witnesses were quick to capture the scene, sharing photos and videos that spread like wildfire across social media platforms, drawing attention from both park-goers and those monitoring the latest happenings in Orlando. Fortunately, the fire was promptly extinguished by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District fire department, ensuring the safety of all visitors and staff on-site. Remarkably, there were no reported injuries.

While the cause of the cooler fire remains unclear at this time, officials are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future. The pavilion, a key attraction for guests seeking a taste of French culture and cuisine, was reopened to eager park-goers later that evening, minimizing disruption to the day’s experience.

This unexpected event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in large entertainment venues, especially as millions flock to Disney World during peak seasons. Stay tuned for more updates as Disney continues to provide the magical experiences that families have come to cherish!