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Saturday 20 Jan 2024

Storm Isha means early end to rail services across most of Scotland on Sunday

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Scotland’s Railway will be closing many lines across the country from 19:00 on Sunday night (January 21) as Storm Isha brings severe weather conditions to all parts of the network.

Rail services will come to an early stop on all routes outside the central belt, along with Fife, Borders, Maryhill, East Kilbride and Kilmarnock lines. Other lines in the central belt will have a reduced timetable and longer journey times as trains will be limited to 40mph.

With an amber Met Office warning in place across the country, Storm Isha is expected to see winds of up to 70/80mph in places on Sunday night which could lead to trees and other debris falling onto the tracks.

Heavy rain and melting snow will also increase the risks to the railway’s infrastructure this weekend and can cause landslips and flooding.

Engineers will need to inspect the closed lines for any damage following the storm and passengers are being advised that services will start later on Monday on affected routes.

Passengers should check their journey before travelling at National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator.

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “Our priority is the safety of our passengers and colleagues and that is why we have taken the decision to close some parts of our network early on Sunday night as the worst of Storm Isha hits the country.

“Our engineers will also need to thoroughly inspect the network for any damage before we reopen the lines and restart train services on Monday morning.

“Weather specialists, based in our control room, will monitor conditions closely throughout the weekend and our teams on the ground will be ready to deal with any issues caused by the storm as quickly as possible.”

Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, said: “We are working closely with our colleagues at Network Rail to deal with the expected impact as Storm Isha hits the country.

“The storm means we won’t be able to run trains on some routes from 19:00 on Sunday and speed restrictions will be in place in other areas resulting in a reduced service and longer journey times. Disruption will continue into Monday as safety checks will need to be carried out in daylight.

“This is an ever-changing picture, and we urge customers to check their journey before they travel, and can keep up to date via our website, app, or social media channels.”