Unprecedented high temperatures have led to widespread travel disruptions in the UK, causing operators to cancel services or announce significant delays as the British public swelters in the heat.
Commuters were warned by public transport companies to expect major delays today as they return to work after the long weekend, following record-breaking spring and May temperatures, with a peak of 34.8C recorded at Kew Gardens in West London.
Additionally, a yellow weather warning has been issued for central England, forecasting thunderstorms from Bath to Leeds. The Met Office cautioned of potential train and bus service disruptions due to flooding and lightning strikes in these areas.
While not all delays are directly linked to the scorching temperatures, travelers on affected routes are advised to carry water with them and inquire about the location of water facilities at stations. Those feeling unwell are urged not to board services.
Continue reading to check if your journey will be impacted by delays or cancellations…
Train operators have cautioned passengers about cancellations and restrictions due to soaring temperatures nationwide. Great Northern reported overhead electric wire damage, suspending services between Cambridge and Kings Lynn.
Disruptions are expected to persist until 3:30 pm today, prompting passengers to seek alternative routes. LNER informed travelers of speed constraints causing delays on certain routes.
Speed limitations of 20mph on 125mph lines in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, and Tollerton, North Yorkshire, have led to service alterations, favoring Azuma trains over InterCity225 trains due to better air conditioning.
South Western Railway reported reduced speeds on some Waterloo services for safety inspections, citing smoke on the track between Waterloo and Vauxhall.
ScotRail and National Rail also announced service disruptions, while motorists are advised to carry water to mitigate the impact of delays on motorways caused by various incidents.
The AA noted a 15% increase in breakdown callouts over the weekend compared to the previous year, attributing the rise to the strain on vehicles during the heatwave.
Inland areas of the UK are experiencing extreme heat, surpassing temperatures in Majorca, Spain. The Met Office highlighted the unusually hot weather across Western Europe, with parts of France measuring 10C above May averages.
Senior Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell emphasized the significance of the high number of sites exceeding 30C on Monday, surpassing the UK’s heatwave threshold for this time of year.
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