Rail services across London are being disrupted as a heatwave pushes temperatures to 34C, with some train companies advising passengers to travel only if essential. The heat is causing rails to buckle, overhead wires to sag, and lineside fires, leading to cancellations and reduced speeds on key routes.
Great Western Railway Service Changes
Great Western Railway (GWR) services are running direct between Reading and London Paddington in both directions between 9.30am and 9pm on Wednesday. However, certain London Paddington to Oxford services will not operate due to the heat.
Passengers whose trains are cancelled may use their tickets on earlier or later services, including on CrossCountry services between Banbury, Oxford, and Reading from 2pm onwards at no extra cost. GWR has not yet confirmed service levels for Thursday but urges passengers to travel only if essential.
East Midlands Railway Advice
East Midlands Railway (EMR) advises customers to travel only if essential on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday. Heat-related issues have forced some units out of service, leading to full or revised cancellations on various routes, including the Intercity route to and from London St Pancras International.
Passengers are strongly recommended to travel before 12pm when temperatures are cooler. Tickets for Wednesday can be used on EMR services between Saturday July 11 and Tuesday July 14, and those who no longer wish to travel can claim a full, fee-free refund from their point of purchase.
Heatwave Impact on Rail Infrastructure
Steel rails can exceed 50C when air temperatures reach 30C, causing expansion and buckling. London met the heatwave criteria on Monday evening after three consecutive days above 28C, with highs of 34C expected on Wednesday and Thursday. Passengers are urged to check journeys before travelling.
