Rail Network on Alert Ahead of Storm Goretti’s Heavy Snow and High Winds

Britain’s rail network is bracing for severe weather this week as forecasters predict heavy snow, ice, rain, and strong winds on Thursday and Friday (8/9 January). Railway staff are preparing for what is expected to be a challenging 24 hours.

Passengers have been urged to check train services before travelling, particularly on Thursday afternoon and evening, and again on Friday morning, as the storm is forecast to continue well into the night and could affect the start of services.

Weather warnings indicate heavy snow for Wales, the Midlands, and the North West from Thursday afternoon, while high winds are expected in the South West. Parts of the South may also see heavy rain. Some lines in Wales are set to close from Thursday afternoon, with precautionary shutdowns possible on routes in the North West.

Network Rail regional director Jake Kelly said:

“Thousands of railway colleagues will do everything they can to keep the railway running across the country on Thursday night and Friday morning, but even with their best efforts we are concerned that the scale of the storm means there may still be some disruption in some areas. While Storm Goretti is forecast to impact most of Britain, there are some areas that could be more affected than others, so our best advice to customers is simply to arm themselves with the best information they can, from National Rail or their operators. In the meantime, we are working hard to get the network as best prepared as we can so we can keep rail customers moving.”

Image: Network Rail