I suppose it is more common for train services to be cancelled by industrial action, but the weather often plays a part too…. even, famously, falling leaves on the line.

Trains are often cancelled during hot weather because extreme heat can affect railway infrastructure and safety. Railway tracks are made of steel, which expands when temperatures rise. In very hot conditions, the rails can become misaligned or even buckle, creating a serious risk of derailment. To reduce this danger, train operators introduce speed restrictions, and if conditions become too severe, services may be cancelled altogether.

Hot weather can also damage overhead power lines. These cables may sag in high temperatures, interrupting the supply of electricity to electric trains. Signals and electronic equipment can overheat as well, leading to technical failures that disrupt the railway network. In some cases, air-conditioning systems on trains struggle to cope with the heat, making journeys uncomfortable or unsafe for passengers.

Another problem is that railway systems in cooler countries are often designed for moderate climates rather than extreme heat. As temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, rail companies are having to invest in stronger tracks, improved cooling systems, and better monitoring technology.

Although cancellations can frustrate passengers, they are usually introduced to protect public safety and prevent accidents on the railway.