Network Rail has advised passengers to travel only if 'absolutely essential' as a red extreme heat warning is set to cause widespread disruption across Britain. Temperatures are forecast to reach up to 40°C in some areas, leading to speed restrictions and likely cancellations on many intercity routes.
Intercity trains from London to Birmingham, Manchester, and beyond are expected to be among the worst affected. Chiltern Railways, which runs between London and Birmingham, has already cancelled more than half of its normal timetable. LNER, operating on the east coast mainline, has also strongly recommended against travel on Wednesday and Thursday.
Network Rail’s deputy chief executive, Jake 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.'
The red warning, issued by the Met Office, covers most of southern England and Wales. Speed restrictions will be imposed to prevent steel rails from buckling and to reduce risks to overhead wires and signalling systems. No rail replacement bus services will be provided during this period.
The disruption comes alongside ongoing issues on the Midland mainline following a fatal collision on Friday. Both Chiltern and LNER have said tickets booked for the affected days can be used on Friday instead, with other operators expected to follow suit.
