Speed restrictions are in place across the Welsh rail network as extreme heat, with temperatures peaking at 38°C in some areas, causes major disruption. Passengers are advised to check before travelling.
Services cancelled and replaced
Transport for Wales has announced cancellations on several routes. Services between Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Central are cancelled all day. No trains will run on the Heart of Wales line between Shrewsbury and Swansea, or on the Conwy Valley line between Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog. There will be no Transport for Wales services between Shrewsbury and Birmingham International.
Rail replacement transport is running on some lines. On the Conwy Valley line, replacement road transport supplied by Llew Jones will cover most services at no extra cost. On the Heart of Wales line, replacement buses will run in place of cancelled trains. Between Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth, a very limited train service will operate, with rail replacement provided by Lloyds Coaches between Machynlleth and Aberystwyth, and by Pats, Lloyds Coaches and Lakeside between Shrewsbury and Machynlleth.
Why heat disrupts trains
Heat can cause overhead lines to expand and sag, lead to line-side fires, and cause rails to buckle. Speed restrictions may be in place, causing delays and cancellations.
Chiltern Railways and East Midlands Railway have warned people to travel only if their journey is essential. Other operators, including c2c, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Northern, Transport for Wales, and West Midlands Railway, have also alerted passengers to alterations.
Advice for passengers
Travellers are advised to carry water and may be eligible for compensation for disrupted journeys.
