Britain's booming staycation market has hit a major snag as scorching temperatures wreak havoc on the nation's rail network, causing widespread disruption for travellers seeking coastal escapes.
Network Rail has imposed widespread speed restrictions across England and Wales as the extreme heat threatens to buckle rails and expand overhead power lines beyond safe limits. The precautionary measures have triggered significant delays and cancellations, particularly affecting services to popular seaside destinations.
Coastal Getaways Grounded
Major operators including Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, and Southeastern have all issued 'do not travel' warnings for several routes. The disruptions come at the worst possible time for both holidaymakers and the tourism industry, coinciding with peak summer holiday season and the hottest weather of the year.
Passengers attempting to reach Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and other coastal hotspots have faced hours-long delays or complete cancellations, with replacement bus services struggling to cope with the unexpected surge in demand.
Network Under Pressure
Network Rail explained that steel rails can reach temperatures up to 20 degrees hotter than the air temperature, causing them to expand and potentially bend under pressure. Speed restrictions are implemented as a crucial safety measure to prevent derailments and ensure passenger safety.
"When steel rails get hot, they expand and can buckle," a Network Rail spokesperson stated. "Even if the line has been stress-relieved to withstand higher temperatures, we need to run trains more slowly to keep passengers and railway staff safe."
Travel Chaos Continues
The disruption has created a domino effect across the network, with delayed services causing congestion and further cancellations throughout the day. Passengers are being advised to:
- Check their journey before travelling
- Allow significant extra time for trips
- Carry ample water and supplies
- Consider alternative travel dates if possible
With the heatwave expected to continue, rail operators warn that disruptions may persist throughout the week, dealing a blow to the staycation boom that many coastal economies have come to rely on.
