'We're sorry': South Western Railway to run fewer trains due to 'extreme' heat as Met Office forecasts record-breaking temperatures
Trains will be running on a reduced schedule
Record breaking temperatures forecast this week has resulted in trains running on a reduced timetable.
South Western Railway has said it is “sorry for the disruption” as it announces fewer trains will operate on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday due to a heatwave, with temperatures forecast to hit 36 degrees this week.
Trains that run are expected to be busier and journey times will likely be longer than usual, as trains run at reduced speeds. Timetable updates will be made at 2am on Tuesday morning and 2am on Wednesday morning for Wednesday and Thursday services.
Stuart Meek, chief operating officer of South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, said: “While we’ll be working hard to keep customers moving, the Met Office’s Red Extreme Heat Warning means an amended timetable will be in place with fewer trains on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
“In line with national travel advice, customers should check before travelling on Tuesday and only travel if essential on Wednesday and Thursday.
“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.
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.
Temporary ticket acceptance is in place to travel at alternative times on the SWR network. Customers connecting with other operators should check their arrangements, as they may differ.