Rail passengers have been warned to travel only if essential during the UK's third heatwave in as many months, with temperatures expected to soar past 35C in some areas. East Midlands Railway (EMR) issued the advisory on Tuesday, urging customers to avoid train travel unless absolutely necessary and to check for timetable changes before setting out.
Services suspended and speeds reduced
EMR said regional services between Nottingham and Worksop, and between Nottingham and Leicester, will be suspended from 12pm on Wednesday to reduce the impact of extreme temperatures on the railway. Other services will run at reduced speeds, and some trains have already been cancelled. The company advised customers to travel before 12pm to avoid the highest temperatures and to expect disruption on the network.
Third heatwave in months
The Met Office announced that temperatures are expected to climb to the mid-30s Celsius in some areas this week, marking the third heatwave in as many months. The extreme heat has raised concerns about rail infrastructure, including tracks buckling and overhead wires sagging, which can cause delays and cancellations.
Passengers are urged to plan ahead, carry water, and check for updates before traveling. The warning applies to all rail services, not just those operated by EMR, as the heatwave is expected to affect the entire network.
