More disruption to rail services in England as heatwave shrinks soil

England's Rail Network Faces Further Disruption Due to Soil Moisture Deficit

The relentless heatwave afflicting England has led to increased disruption in rail services, as persistent drought conditions shrink the soil supporting railway embankments. South Western Railway (SWR) has announced changes to its timetable, reducing frequencies and increasing travel times, in response to the expected impact of hot and dry weather.

From August 10, passengers traveling between Yeovil and Exeter St Davids will face reduced service, with trains running every other hour. Those traveling between London Waterloo and Exeter are advised to allow extra time for their journeys, which could take up to 27 minutes longer. The changes are a result of Network Rail's decision to implement late-night speed restrictions and altered timetables nationwide, particularly on routes operated by Great Northern, Greater Anglia, and c2c in the eastern regions.

The issue stems from "soil moisture deficit" caused by the UK's fourth heatwave of the year, following a spring with unusually low rainfall. This condition affects the clay soil used in constructing railway embankments, causing it to shrink and disturb the track geometry. As a result, trains must reduce their speeds to ensure safe operation.

South Western Railway's West of England line is particularly susceptible to this issue, with the operator taking similar measures last year after a dry spring and summer. In a statement, Lawrence Bowman, managing director of SWR and Network Rail Wessex, emphasized the importance of careful planning in minimizing the impact on passengers while ensuring their safety.