Rail services across Wales are facing major disruption for a second day as the country braces for potentially record-breaking temperatures under a rare Met Office red warning for extreme heat. Transport for Wales has announced weather-related restrictions on routes across North, Mid and South Wales, with delays and cancellations expected until at least Friday evening.
Affected Routes and Service Restrictions
The affected lines include Chester to Wrexham General, Shrewsbury to Birmingham International, Machynlleth, Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog, Pontypridd to Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Central to Ebbw Vale Town, Manchester Piccadilly to Cardiff Central, Bridgend to Maesteg, and Coryton to Penarth. Transport for Wales has introduced restrictions across the network as extreme temperatures place pressure on rail infrastructure. Passengers are being advised to check before travelling and allow extra time for their journeys.
Extreme Weather Warning and Record Temperatures
The disruption comes as Wales enters the second day of a Met Office red warning, with temperatures forecast to reach around 40°C in parts of south-east Wales on Thursday. The Met Office has described the conditions as a "severe weather event", warning that an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is likely to have significant impacts on the public and infrastructure. Great Western Railway has also warned customers to travel only if necessary during the peak of the heatwave.
Widespread School Closures and Government Response
More than 500 schools across Wales have closed as temperatures continue to rise. Speaking in the Senedd this week, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said the weather warning was "extremely serious" and warned that Wales could experience its highest temperatures on record. Transport for Wales said passengers should continue to monitor travel updates as disruption is expected to remain in place while the extreme weather continues.
