Rail firm warns against travel amid 'extreme heat'

Rail passengers are being urged only to travel if it is essential on Wednesday and Thursday amid soaring temperatures.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) said any customers who needed to travel should expect disruption and warned them to travel before midday before temperatures peaked.

It comes as the UK Health Security Agency has issued a red heat-health alert across the Midlands and southern England, while the Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for the East Midlands for most of the week.

Anyone who needs to travel has been advised to take extra precautions, including carrying a bottle of water and allowing extra travel time.

Temperatures are expected to climb to about 35C (95F) across the East Midlands on Wednesday and Thursday, and remain high during the nights.

Two amber warnings for "extreme heat" are in place in the region between Tuesday and Thursday night.

It means there is a likely risk of illness and a risk to infrastructure, such as public transport and power supplies.

The Met Office has also issued a red warning for heat in parts of the Midlands and further south.

EMR is among several rail operators that have warned customers against travelling on Wednesday and Thursday.

The firm said while its services would continue to run, some trains would operate at reduced speeds and to amended timetables with a "heightened risk of delays".

Customers who need to travel have been advised to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and wait for trains in the shade or in a waiting room, out of the sun.

Anyone feeling unwell should not board a train, but if you are already on a service and feel unwell, speak to a member of staff, EMR added.

Some services are also still disrupted following a fatal rail collision in Bedford on Friday.

Meanwhile, fire services in the East Midlands have issued advice on how to stay safe during high temperatures, including avoiding bonfires, using barbecues sensibly and avoiding jumping into open water.

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