Media centre

Wednesday 28 Nov 2018

Severe weather warning for South West rail travellers

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail is advising passengers to check their journeys before travelling on Thursday morning (November 29) due to severe weather forecast across the south which will require speed limits for trains.

With high winds and heavy rain being forecast by the Met Office, Network Rail is introducing speed restrictions on some lines.

A 50 mph emergency speed restriction has been applied from 0400 until 1000 between between; Salisbury - Whimple; Eastleigh - Weymouth; Yeovil Pen Mill - Dorchester Jn.

Route proving trains will be run ‪on Thursday morning‬ between; Portsmouth - Haslemere; Weymouth - Southampton; Netley Line. 

As a result, some train services will be altered and passengers should check their journeys at www.southwesternrailway.com or National Rail Enquiries before travelling.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “Due to the severe weather forecast by the Met Office, we have to impose speed restrictions on some lines on the South Western Railway network for the safety of passengers and railway staff.

“High winds can blow trees and other debris onto railway. These restrictions will mean train drivers are better able to bring trains to a halt if any obstructions are spotted ahead.”