They get you off the rides and out of open areas, but the walkways are typically not evacuated.

You’re not getting electrocuted on a concrete path between gift shops. If lightning is within a certain radius (usually 8–10 miles), parks close outdoor rides, pools, and open attractions, and they’ll direct guests to take shelter in nearby stores, restaurants, or covered queue lines. Ponchos are for rain, not lightning—they won’t help if you’re standing in an open field.

If you’re on a walkway, you’ll hear an announcement or see staff telling people to move indoors. They don’t clear the entire park because most buildings are safe. But if you’re on an exposed bridge or wide open plaza, they’ll usually guide you to the nearest covered area. The key is to get inside a solid structure—not just under a tree or an umbrella.

You don’t need to panic, but don’t be the person standing in the middle of Main Street taking photos during a warning. That’s how you become an anecdote.