Visitors at Thorpe Park in UK were left stranded yesterday after two major rides, including the park’s brand new Hyperia coaster, reportedly broke down at the same time during the hottest Bank Holiday Monday on record.
Riders on Hyperia were left suspended around 200 feet in the air at the ride’s apex for approximately 30 minutes as temperatures hit 33°C across parts of southern England during the ongoing heatwave. Witnesses said the ride eventually restarted, allowing passengers to safely return to the station.
At the same time, a second attraction elsewhere in the park also suffered a stoppage, leaving additional visitors stranded mid-ride during peak afternoon temperatures.
No injuries have been reported, and all guests are believed to have been brought down safely. Some visitors online joked that those affected at least deserved complimentary fast passes after the ordeal in the heat.
The incident comes during one of the busiest days of the year for UK theme parks, with thousands heading out to enjoy the Bank Holiday sunshine.