Network Rail warned passengers to avoid non-essential travel on Wednesday and Thursday as extreme weather train delays in the UK were expected across Britain. Jake Kelly, the deputy chief executive, said people should check before travelling on Tuesday and only go if absolutely essential in the red warning zone.
The Met Office issued a red extreme heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures forecast to reach 37C across most of southern England and Wales and possibly 40C in the most affected areas. Intercity trains from London to Birmingham, Manchester and beyond were among the services expected to feel the disruption most.
Jake Kelly and Network Rail
Kelly said: "Extreme heat can have a significant impact on the railway, so safety must come first. We’re asking passengers to check before travelling on Tuesday, and only travel if absolutely essential on Wednesday and Thursday if they are going to, from or within the red warning zone as temperatures are expected to peak."
He added: "If you do need to travel in this area or outside of it where it will still be hot, please plan ahead, allow extra time and take necessary precautions, such as carrying water, to stay safe. We thank passengers for their patience and understanding during this period."
Chiltern Railways reductions
Chiltern Railways had already cancelled more than half of its normal timetable, and its commercial director, Michael Stewart, said trains were running at greatly reduced levels to keep everyone safe. He told passengers they may face significant delays and very busy conditions.
Stewart said: "We strongly advise you to avoid travelling over the next three days if possible. Trains are running at greatly reduced levels to ensure everyone’s safety, which means you may experience significant delays and very busy conditions."
He also said: "If you do need to travel, please stay safe. Check your journeys on the morning you travel as planners are still being updated and carry a bottle of water with you at all times."
Speed restrictions across Britain
Network Rail said speed restrictions would be imposed across the country, and slowing trains would mean most services were significantly delayed or cancelled. It also said there would be no rail replacement bus services during this period, leaving passengers with fewer alternatives if they decide to travel.
LNER strongly recommended that passengers do not travel on Wednesday or Thursday. Services on the Midland mainline remained affected after the fatal collision on Friday between two EMR trains at Bedford, and investigations and repair work were expected to continue through the rest of the week.
For passengers, the immediate instruction is to check before setting out, then decide whether the journey is essential at all. Those who do travel face reduced timetables, speed restrictions and disruption that is already reaching beyond one operator.
