With it turning more Scorchio in the United Kingdom than not, Network Rail has put out travel advice for the next few days, with Rail passengers travelling to, from, or within extreme heat zones urged to only travel if absolutely necessary during the record heatwave.
It is going to be a hot one this week
The UK Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning for large parts of southern England and Wales, during Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June, with forecasters warning that June’s all-time daily temperature record could be broken.
Passengers who are travelling today (Tuesday 23 June) are strongly advised to check before they travel as temperatures begin to increase.
On Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June, as the most extreme conditions are expected, passengers travelling to, from or within the red zones should only travel if absolutely necessary – while passengers outside those areas should continue to check travel plans carefully.
Rail services will continue to run, but passengers should expect disruption across the network. For safety reasons, trains will operate at reduced speeds and to amended timetables, meaning journeys will take longer and there is a heightened risk of delays, cancellations, and last-minute alterations. There will be no rail replacement bus services during this period.
Extreme heat can affect track, ground conditions, power and signalling systems, increasing the likelihood of disruption across the network. The rail industry is using a combination of proactive monitoring and investment in smart technologies — including remote sensors and innovative cooling solutions – to protect critical infrastructure, strengthen the resilience of Britain’s railway network and keep passengers moving safely during extreme weather.
Passengers who do need to travel are strongly advised to prepare for the conditions by bringing plenty of water, wearing sunscreen and a hat, and ensuring that they have a backup plan in case of disruption.
East Midlands
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East of England
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London & South East England
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South West England
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Wales
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West Midlands
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If you hold tickets for the next few days
Passengers holding tickets for travel on Tuesday 23 June, Wednesday 24 June, or Thursday 25 June are advised that they may be able to use their tickets on alternative dates or times. Check the National Rail Enquiries website or your rail operator’s website for the latest travel information and details of ticket acceptance
In Quotes
Jake Kelly, deputy CEO of Network Rail, 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 if they are going to, from or within the red warning zone as temperatures are expected to peak.
“If you do need to travel in this area or outside of it where it will still be hot, please plan ahead, allow extra time and take necessary precautions, such as carrying water, to stay safe. We thank passengers for their patience and understanding during this period.”
Take Precautions
With conditions such as these, it is not going to be a fun few days in hot weather (given the lack of aircon, electric fans selling out faster than ice cream and that most UK homes are not built for this sort of weather). In addition, some schools are closing or modifying their opening patterns during this heatwave.
If you are out and about, ensure you have got some sun covering and of course, water bottles to ensure you remain hydrated. As for life beyond that, Sky News has some helpful guides for the next few days.
As for the railway, distribution will be an inevitability. Plan ahead where possible and use the travel advice appropriately.
Scorchio?
One for older people, who remember The Fast Show – with Chanel 9 Neus and its accurate reporting. Bueno Estente.
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