South Western Railway advises customers to travel only if essential on Wednesday and Thursday, as extreme heatwave hits UK

South Western Railway train

Extreme heat expected to affect railways

South Western Railway is running an amended timetable on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week (23 – 25 June) after the Met Office issued rare Red Extreme Heat Warning.

A red warning indicates there is a risk to life. The Met Office is warning temperatures could rise to 40 degrees on Wednesday. The alert covers parts of central and southern England and Wales on Wednesday and Thursday.

Met Office forecasts

High temperatures can have a significant impact on railway tracks, signals and embankments.

On all three days, South Western Railway says fewer trains are set to operate across the SWR network and journey times will likely be longer than usual, as trains will be running at reduced speeds.

Customers are advised to check before travelling on Tuesday and only travel if essential on Wednesday and Thursday.

South Western Railway train

Fewer trains, slower journeys and probably unscheduled cancellations

South Western Railway says:

‘Trains will be busier and journeys will take longer than normal, and customers should visit the South Western Railway website for the latest travel advice and ticket information before setting off.

‘To help customers complete their journeys, temporary ticket acceptance is in place to travel at alternative times on the South Western Railway network’.

They add that while the amended timetable is designed to help ensure scheduled trains run as planned, services may still be subject to further short notice changes and cancellations.

Stuart Meek, Chief Operating Officer of South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, said:

“We’re sorry for the disruption this extreme heatwave may cause your journey and thank you for your patience as we respond to these record-breaking conditions.

“If you must travel, please also remember take precautions like bringing a water bottle with you and not boarding a train if you are feeling unwell”.