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Friday 19 Jan 2024

Passengers urged to check before travelling as Storm Isha arrives in Scotland

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

With a Met Office amber weather warning in place across much of Scotland on Sunday, passengers are being advised to check before travelling as high winds, heavy rain and melting snow could affect services on Scotland’s Railway this weekend.

Weather warnings have been issued for rain and wind across Scotland with Storm Isha expected to bring winds of up to 70mph on Sunday night and into Monday.

Gusts of around 50mph will hit the country on Saturday with 40mm of rain due to fall in some parts of the west coast, central belt and southern Scotland.

Speed restrictions may need to be introduced as the weather develops as slowing trains down reduces the chances of striking obstructions on the line.

Network Rail will have additional teams, including chainsaw-trained staff, ready to remove trees and debris blown on to the tracks during the extreme weather.

The railway’s specialist meteorologists will also be monitoring conditions in real-time to help plan the industry’s response to the severe conditions..

Liam Sumpter, route director, Network Rail Scotland, said: “The severe weather we’re expecting over the weekend, particularly when Storm Isha arrives, will mean disruption to journeys is likely.

“Our teams will be working around-the-clock to repair any damage caused by the weather, while removing debris from the line and tackling any water build-ups.

“We may need to slow some trains down and close parts of the railway over the course of the weekend and we’re asking those planning on taking the train to check with their operator before travelling.”

Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said: “We are working closely with our colleagues at Network Rail to assess the impact of the adverse weather across the country over the next few days.

 “It’s likely that there will be some changes to ScotRail services, which could mean cancellations, or longer journey times in the areas most affected.

 “Customers should check their journey before they travel, and can keep up to date via our website, app, or social media channels.”

For more information on any changes to services, check www.nationalrail.co.uk or with individual train operators.