Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, US, has announced the launch of its new 4-acre (1.6-hectare) water park expansion - Riptide Bay at Hurricane Harbor.

Hurricane Harbor, which first opened at the theme park in 2005, has now expanded to cover 20 acres (8.1 hectares) with the addition of Riptide Bay. New slides installed as part of the extension include Mega Wedgie and Dive Bomber, which both feature a Skybox launching capsule that sees the floor open underneath riders.

Dive Bomber features a five-storey free-fall into a looping slide ahead of a further five-storey journey at speeds of up to 40mph (64.4kmph). A twin version is also available. Mega Wedgie includes a five-storey, 80-degree experience at similar speeds to Dive Bomber, while Wipeout will enable groups of 2-4 people to speed through 400ft (122m) of tubes and ends with a 35ft (10.7m) drop.

Surf Rider offers a double-sided surf simulator that allows two surfers at a time, while a new 14,000sq ft (1,301sq m) family activity pool - Monsoon Lagoon - is also available. Six Flags Great America park president Hank Salemi said: "Riptide Bay is the perfect addition to our park's extensive collection of thrills.

"We expanded the water park due to popular demand, and are excited to provide guests of all ages with a variety of unique and thrilling slides and attractions."