Network Rail Warns of Delays and Reduced Speeds During Storm Bram
Network Rail is urging passengers in Scotland to plan ahead and check their journeys on Tuesday as Storm Bram brings heavy rain and strong winds across the country. The Met Office has issued an amber warning for wind in northwest Scotland, where gusts could reach up to 90mph, while yellow warnings for wind and rain cover the rest of the nation.
Strong winds may bring down trees and debris onto the tracks, and heavy rainfall raises the risk of flooding and landslips affecting railway infrastructure. To protect passengers and staff, trains will operate at reduced speeds in several areas from Tuesday into Wednesday, with safety measures reviewed and updated as conditions evolve.
From early Tuesday morning, reduced speeds will affect parts of the West Coast Main Line and routes connecting Glasgow with Ayrshire, Dumfries, and Galloway due to heavy rain. From Tuesday afternoon, speed restrictions will apply to the Mallaig, Oban, and West Highland lines, remaining in place into Wednesday morning. By Tuesday evening, similar limits will be imposed on the Far North Line and sections of the Highland Main Line and Aberdeen–Inverness route, continuing until early Wednesday.
Network Rail’s meteorologists are closely monitoring forecasts, while inspection teams are stepping up efforts to identify and reduce potential hazards ahead of the storm. Additional teams, including chainsaw-trained staff, will be on standby to respond to fallen trees or debris, and engineers will inspect lines for damage once the storm passes. Network Rail Scotland’s helicopter will also support rapid inspections across the network.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said:
“Storm Bram is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain, which could disrupt the railway. Our top priority is keeping passengers and staff safe, and we’re already working hard behind the scenes to prepare. Teams are carrying out extra inspections and putting contingency plans in place, with staff ready to respond quickly to any damage throughout the storm. We’ll be monitoring conditions closely and doing everything we can to keep people moving safely. We’re asking passengers to check their journey before travelling on Tuesday and stay up to date with the latest information.”
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added:
“Safety is our absolute priority, and with Storm Bram expected to bring severe weather, we’re advising customers to plan ahead and check their journey before setting off. Speed restrictions will be in place across parts of the network, and while this may mean some journeys take a little longer, these steps are essential to keeping everyone safe. We’ll have staff working around the clock to support Network Rail’s efforts and to keep people moving where it’s safe to do so. We’d encourage customers to use the ScotRail app, website, or follow our social channels for the latest travel information.”
Image: Network Rail