Many of us will have woken up this morning in a sweat, despite the fan blasting all night and the windows thrown wide open. Welcome to a British heatwave.
With a red weather warning being issued by the Met Office just yesterday, warning that temperatures could reach up to 40 °C across parts of England and Wales, we’re having to make adjustments to protect against the extreme temperatures.
One of those measures has just been announced by Network Rail, urging passengers to only travel to and from areas affected by extreme heat if essential.
Essential rail journeys only
Although the official red weather warning comes into place from Wednesday, Network Rail is encouraging train passengers to check before they travel today (23 June.)
Then on Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June, it is recommended to only travel if absolutely necessary to and from areas within the red zones. Network Rail suggests that those outside of the red zones should also check travel plans for any disruptions.
While rail services will continue to run, disruptions are likely to occur across the network due to the extreme conditions. This means there could be train cancellations, delays and last-minute alterations.
Jake Kelly, deputy CEO of Network Rail, says “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.”
Other ways to stay safe while travelling on trains
If journeys must be taken, there are several precautions passengers should take, including checking travel before making the journey, wearing appropriate clothing, carrying water, and not travelling if you feel unwell.
Network Rail also advises not pulling passenger alarms between stations if possible and in the event that you get stuck on a train, do not exit as the railway is still live.
