Fortnite Server Downtime for Update 33.20: Everything You Need to Know

Fortnite fans, it’s that time again—server downtime is upon us as Epic Games prepares to roll out the highly anticipated Update 33.20. If you’re wondering when you can jump back into the action, we’ve got all the details for you!

When Did the Downtime Start?

Epic Games initiated the server downtime on January 14, 2025, at 4:00 AM ET / 9:00 AM GMT. As always, matchmaking was disabled approximately 30 minutes prior to this, so players couldn’t queue for games starting at 3:30 AM ET.

When Will the Servers Be Back Up?

While Epic Games hasn’t provided an official end time for the downtime, Fortnite updates typically last between 1 to 3 hours. If everything goes smoothly, you can expect the servers to be back online by 7:00 AM ET / 12:00 PM GMT at the latest.

Keep an eye on the official @FortniteStatus Twitter account for real-time updates.

 

 

What’s New in Update 33.20?

While Epic Games hasn’t released the full patch notes yet, here’s what you can expect based on leaks and hints:

New Weapons and Items:

• A Mythic SMG rumored to feature high damage output.
• Augments Refresh, adding new abilities to mix up your gameplay.

Map Changes:

• New POI (Point of Interest) potentially tied to the rumored “Crystal Caverns” theme.
• Weather updates, including dynamic storms that affect gameplay.

Bug Fixes:

• Issues with invisible vehicles on PC are expected to be resolved.
• General stability improvements for Creative Mode.

Event Preparations:

• Teasers for the upcoming Chapter 6 Season 2 event, which could introduce a new cinematic experience.

 

 

How to Prepare for the Update

To ensure you’re ready to jump back in when the servers are live:

• Check Your Storage: The update size is estimated to be around 3-5 GB on most platforms.
• Update Your Game Early: As soon as the patch is available, start the download to avoid delays.
• Follow Fortnite Status Updates: Keep tabs on Epic Games’ social media channels for live updates.

Why Does Downtime Happen?

Server downtime is essential for Epic Games to deploy updates, fix bugs, and ensure a smooth experience for players. While it’s frustrating to wait, these maintenance periods keep the game fresh and functional.

Final Thoughts

While the wait may feel long, Update 33.20 promises exciting new content and improvements. So, take this opportunity to plan your next battle strategy, catch up on some Fortnite lore, or simply enjoy a break before diving back in.