Transport for Wales has cancelled all trains along two busy routes due to the forecasted severe weather
Trains on two busy routes have already been cancelled(Image: Ian Dewar Photography via Getty Images)
Rail passengers are being advised to only travel if necessary as there is an extreme weather alert currently in force across Wales this week that is impacting travel, with train services cancelled and additional disruption anticipated.
Red and amber weather warnings for exceptional heat began in Wales on Monday, June 22, and will be active through to Thursday, June 25. Temperatures are expected to rise to 37 Celsius across the majority of the country over the next three days, and perhaps even reaching 38 to 40 Celsius in some places.
National Rail has cautioned that services could face disruption as high temperatures can cause overhead cables to stretch and droop, trigger trackside fires, and lead to rail buckling.
Elevated temperatures can also prompt rail operators to impose speed restrictions, potentially resulting in delays or cancellations. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here
The deputy chief executive of Network Rail, 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 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.”
Transport for Wales (TfW) has suspended all trains on two major routes owing to the predicted extreme weather conditions, and Great Western Railway has also advised passengers to travel only if absolutely necessary on Wednesday and Thursday.
Owing to anticipated severe weather conditions between Pontypridd and Cardiff Bay, TfW rail services were suspended on Monday from 5am through to 11.59pm.
The transport operator also cancelled trains running in both directions between Heath Low Level and Penarth from 5am on Monday through to 8pm on Saturday, June 27.
While these services remain suspended, a replacement shuttle will run serving Coryton, Whitchurch, Rhiwbina, Birchgrove, Ty Glas and Heath Low Level in both directions.
For those heading towards Cardiff Central or Rhymney, passengers should change at Heath Low Level and proceed on foot to Heath High Level for onward train connections.
GWR has announced it will be modifying services operating during the hottest parts of the day, though the updated timetable will only be made available on the day of travel.
The alterations will result in a reduced number of trains and marginally extended journey times throughout the warmest periods of the day.
In lieu of this, the company is relaxing ticket restrictions for passengers holding tickets for Wednesday and Thursday. Tickets for both days may be used on Monday, Tuesday, and up to and including Friday.
