Rail bosses have stated that train lines remain safe in hot weather, despite two separate train derailments occurring within a 24-hour period. The incidents have intensified scrutiny on the UK's infrastructure's ability to withstand record-breaking temperatures.
On Friday, a Greater Anglia train derailed near Wickford station in Essex. The incident, which involved the front coach coming off the tracks, occurred with no reported injuries. This event followed a derailment on Thursday afternoon in Sussex, where a Southern Rail train's carriages overturned. Two passengers sustained serious injuries and were transported to major trauma centers, while an additional 18 individuals received hospital treatment.
The derailment in Sussex has prompted fears that buckling tracks due to high temperatures are responsible for the incidents. Lewes MP James MacCleary had previously raised concerns with rail operators about the track becoming 'bumpier' due to the heat. Reports indicate that a safety inspection of the track section where the Thursday derailment occurred had taken place just 24 hours prior to the crash.
British railway tracks are designed to accommodate average summer temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). However, temperatures in parts of the South-East of England have recently exceeded 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit). According to John Whitehurst, chief executive of Greater Thameslink Railway, derailments are 'incredibly rare' and the railway network is 'safe' during hot weather. He noted that control processes are in place, including inspections and temporary speed restrictions or service suspensions if necessary.
The Greater Anglia service derailed near Wickford station at 2:12 p.m. on Friday. Approximately 45 passengers were aboard the train traveling from Southend to London Liverpool Street. Emergency services, including air ambulances, police, and firefighters, responded to the scene. Witnesses described hearing a loud 'crunching sound,' followed by a plume of dust and smoke.
An investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Bureau is underway to determine the cause of the incidents. Martin Frobisher, a director at Network Rail, acknowledged that the hot weather has 'presented exceptional challenges to the railway' and stated that investigations will examine all potential causes. He urged against speculation until further information becomes available.
These recent events add to broader concerns about the capacity of Britain's infrastructure to cope with extreme heat. MP James MacCleary mentioned discussions with Greater Thameslink Railway regarding track conditions, noting increased bumpiness that might be linked to recent hot weather. He also highlighted reports from rail companies about extreme dry conditions affecting embankments and track stability, and a recent increase in speed restrictions directly related to the heat.
The hottest day of the year in the UK was recorded recently at 38.1 degrees Celsius (100.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in Kew Gardens, west London. This period also marks the fifth heatwave of the summer, during which various transport systems have experienced difficulties.
UK railway tracks have a stress-free temperature of 27 degrees Celsius. Exceeding this temperature increases the risk of rails buckling. While some countries experiencing consistently high temperatures use concrete slabs to prevent buckling, this method is more costly and can present issues in winter. In the UK, trains typically reduce speed during hot weather to mitigate heat-related stress on the lines.
Both the line between Lewes and Haywards Heath, and the line between Wickford and Southend, are expected to remain closed for the foreseeable future. Of the 20 individuals initially taken to the hospital following the Lewes crash, 18 have since been discharged.