Storm Claudia is wreaking havoc across the United Kingdom, forcing major train operators to cancel services and issue urgent 'do not travel' warnings to passengers.
Widespread Rail Disruption
The Met Office has issued a combination of amber and yellow weather warnings for heavy rain and strong winds, leading to significant disruption on the rails. Friday, 14 November 2025, has seen the worst of the chaos, with problems expected to continue into the weekend.
A combination of necessary speed restrictions and track flooding has brought large parts of the network to a standstill. Key operators have been severely impacted, with Avanti West Coast cancelling dozens of trains on crucial routes connecting London, Birmingham, and Manchester, and implementing a reduced timetable.
Operator-Specific Cancellations and Closures
The disruption is nationwide. Northern services are experiencing severe issues, and passengers are being advised to avoid travel altogether. Similarly, TransPennine Express and East Midlands Railway have axed numerous services.
Other major operators are also struggling. Both CrossCountry and Chiltern Railways have been forced to halve their service frequencies on key routes. In a significant closure, the Great Western line running from Exeter to Barnstaple in Devon will remain closed until at least Sunday due to severe flooding.
Looking Ahead
With Storm Claudia continuing to hammer the UK, rail passengers are urged to check the latest travel information with their operator before setting out on any journey. The situation remains fluid, and the clear message from authorities is to avoid non-essential travel while the severe weather persists.
