Theme parks close rides because of a severe spring storm
A severe spring storm shut rides at several parks in March 2015, from Pagode, Python and Joris en de Draak at Efteling to Troy, Dwervelwind and Booster Bike at Toverland. Germany was hit hard too: Holiday Park stayed closed and Europa-Park kept Silver Star on the ground.
More context
The spring storm of 31 March 2015 affected theme park operations in the Netherlands and Germany at the same time. Looopings reported wind speeds of more than 90 kilometres per hour in the Netherlands, while German reports described the storm as a hurricane, with gusts above 150 kilometres per hour. For parks, safety took priority over offering a full ride line-up.
At Efteling, Pagode, Python and Joris en de Draak were kept out of service for the time being. Toverland closed Troy, Dwervelwind, Booster Bike and the Survival Parcours as a precaution; Maximus' Blitz Bahn was also down because of technical issues. With the ride offering reduced so sharply, Toverland lowered its day ticket from 26 euros to 16.50 euros. Julianatoren decided not to open at all, saying visitor safety could not be guaranteed. Slagharen also reported disruption.
The impact was even heavier in Germany. Holiday Park stayed closed, Europa-Park stopped rides including Silver Star, and Phantasialand kept several attractions grounded. For visitors, the storm meant uncertainty, altered plans and sometimes a cancelled day out. Historically, the report shows how vulnerable tall, fast or outdoor attractions are to extreme weather: when conditions turn severe, responsible operation matters more than popularity.