Media centre

Saturday 19 Feb 2022

Knock-on impact of Storm Eunice impacting services in Hertfordshire

Region & Route:

Eastern

The impact of Storm Eunice is still being felt today in Hertfordshire as rail services continue to be disrupted. 

The heavy rain and strong winds brought by Storm Eunice have caused damage to the Hertford Loop which runs from Stevenage to Bowes Park, as well as at Royston, on the route between King’s Cross and Cambridge.

Yesterday, a train driver reported damage to overhead line equipment, which powers trains, near Stevenage and, in Royston, a tree fell onto overhead line equipment, causing significant damage.

The continued high wind speeds meant that Network Rail teams had a limited window in which it was safe to carry out the complex repairs needed.

Teams were on site last night, but unfortunately, the severity of the damage, as well as the challenging conditions, means that not all of the repair work has finished.

This morning (19 Feb) people are advised not to travel between Letchworth Garden City, Cambridge and King’s Lynn due to damage to overhead line equipment, and to delay travel until after 11am between Stevenage and Hertford North.

Sarah Reid, Route Director for Network Rail, said: “Storm Eunice has brought significant challenges in running the railway, with the impact still being felt today in Hertfordshire.

“We urge people to check before travelling as there is still some disruption to services. The best way to do this is via National Rail Enquiries or with your train operator.”

Angie Doll, Interim Chief Operating Officer at Govia Thameslink Railway, which runs Great Northern, Southern and Thameslink trains, said: 

“Strong winds from Storm Eunice have been battering our network with trees, debris and other objects blown onto the line, halting services and causing widespread disruption.

“We are working hard with our colleagues at Network Rail to reinstate services as quickly as we can, but rail passengers are urged to avoid travelling this evening. Customers can apply for a free refund or use their tickets to travel over the next three days instead.

“With disruption likely to last into the weekend, customers should check before they travel this Saturday and Sunday.”

For the latest travel information, visit www.greatnorthernrail.com, www.southernrailway.com and www.thameslinkrailway.com.