Extreme Heat Causes Rail Disruptions in North West England

Rail services across North West England are expected to face disruptions as extreme heat impacts train operations during the current summer heatwave. The operator Northern has announced that fewer trains will be running on Thursday, particularly affecting routes to and from Manchester Oxford Road and Manchester Piccadilly.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat, predicting temperatures in the region could reach 33C. Northern has advised passengers to check their travel plans, stay hydrated, and allow extra time for their journeys. The operator indicated that timetable adjustments were necessary to minimize potential disruptions and ensure service stability.

Some trains will operate at reduced speeds due to the heat, and both rolling stock and infrastructure may be affected. Specific routes, including those from Rose Hill and Hadfield to Manchester Piccadilly, and Leeds to Rochdale, will see reduced services. Additionally, there will be no Yorkshire Flyer service between Leeds and Sheffield until later in the day. Despite these changes, Northern's stopping services will continue to operate throughout the day.