Rail passengers across parts of the South West are being urged to check their journeys carefully after Storm Goretti led to the suspension of several routes this evening.
Network Rail has confirmed that all train services in Cornwall will be suspended from 6pm today (Thursday 8 January) due to an amber weather warning for strong winds. Trains already in service will complete their journeys, but no further services will operate until Friday morning.
In Devon, services between Exeter and Okehampton and Exeter and Barnstaple will also be suspended from 6pm, with final trains returning to Exeter before that time. Passengers planning to travel on these routes are being advised to travel earlier in the day and avoid attempting journeys later this afternoon or evening.
Because of the forecast conditions, replacement road transport will not be provided, with road safety also expected to be affected by high winds.
While most other routes across the region are expected to run as normal, passengers are warned that severe weather may lead to short-notice changes or cancellations. Early morning services on Friday 9 January could also be disrupted on the affected routes.
Network Rail engineers will be stationed at key locations throughout the storm, ready to deal with fallen trees, debris and flooding. Preparations include drainage inspections, checks on points heating equipment, additional snow and ice treatment trains, and teams equipped to clear obstructions quickly.
Marcus Jones, Managing Director for Network Rail’s Western route, said conditions would remain challenging into Friday and urged passengers to plan ahead and check before travelling.
GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood added that the safety of passengers and staff had driven the decision to suspend services, encouraging customers to travel earlier where possible or delay their journeys.
Passengers holding tickets for affected routes will be able to use them either earlier today or on Friday. Travellers are also advised to take extra care at stations, where icy conditions may be present.
