Upgraded weather warning will bring significant disruption from Monday, GWR warns customers
The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for parts of the country on Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures forecast to reach as high as 40°C in some areas, including London.
Following the warning Network Rail has assessed the impact of the extreme heat on the railway infrastructure and said it would be introducing speed restrictions to ensure the safe running of trains.
As a result, GWR services are expected to be significantly impacted and those trains that do run will be extremely busy. Journeys will take longer and there is a high likelihood of cancellations, delays and last-minute alterations.
Customers are being advised to only travel if absolutely necessary on Monday and Tuesday. Passengers who choose to travel are being advised to check their journeys and ensure they are well-prepared for the extreme conditions – wearing cool clothes, taking handheld fans and ensuring they have plenty of water to drink.
To help customers, GWR is allowing people with tickets for travel on its services on Monday and Tuesday to travel on Wednesday and Thursday instead.
Our Refund and Book with Confidence policies will remain in place. For further information on GWR train services visit: https://www.gwr.com/travel-information/travel-updates/check-your-journey
Contact Information
John Carter
Media and Communications Manager
Great Western Railway
0845 410 4444
Notes to editors
First Greater Western Limited, trading as “Great Western Railway” (GWR), operates trains across the Great Western franchise area, which includes South Wales, the West Country, the Cotswolds, across southern England and into London. GWR provides high speed, commuter, regional and branch line train services, and before the covid-19 pandemic helped over 100 million passengers reach their destinations every year. GWR has been awarded a National Rail Contract to continue operating the Great Western network, which shall run up to 21 June 2025, with the potential for a further three years at the Secretary of State’s discretion. Find out more here: https://www.gwr.com/about-us