Carowinds announces first-ever double launch roller coaster in the Carolinas

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Thrill seekers get excited. Carowinds unveiled its plans for the 2019 season on Thursday morning.

Next spring, the park said it's adding the first double launch roller coaster in the Carolinas, called the Copperhead Strike.

Jaclyn Shearer was there for today's big announcement and will have more on the additions to the park on Eyewitness News at 5.

The Copperhead Strike is a double launch roller coaster, which means it propels guests twice during the ride.

The first launch takes riders from 0-42 mph in 2.5 seconds, while the second launch can take riders up to 50 mph in two seconds.

[GALLERY: Carowinds announces first-ever double launch roller coaster in the Carolinas]

The rollercoaster is not for the faint of heart. The ride, which takes just under about 2 and a half minutes, will send guests upside down five times.

Before the announcement, Carowinds officials called this the "biggest announcement in park history".

The rollercoaster will be in the Blue Ridge Junction, a brand new themed area of the park.

Park officials said the area is inspired by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas and will feature the Blue Ridge Country Kitchen.

Carowinds representatives also announced a new hotel right next to the amusement park.

Springhill Suites by Marriott, the park’s first onsite hotel is set to open next year.

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