Train services to finish early as Storm Floris brings strong winds and heavy rain

A number of railway lines will be closed as Storm Floris batters Scotland with winds of up to 90mph and heavy rain.

Network Rail has announced that several lines in the west and north of the country will be closed from noon on Monday, August 4.

An amber weather warning comes into force across the majority of the country from 10am with fears strong winds could bring down trees and blow other debris onto train tracks.

The unseasonal nature of the strong winds poses a higher risk, with trees in full leaf being more susceptible to wind damage.

Heavy rain will also increase the risks to the railway’s infrastructure and can cause landslips and flooding.

Engineers will inspect the closed lines for damage after the storm has passed, while Network Rail Scotland’s helicopter will assist teams on the ground to complete essential checks across the rail network as soon as possible.

Services across the affected routes are expected to start later on Tuesday.

Which lines are closing?

Lines which will close from noon on Monday, August 4

Edinburgh – Fife/Perth/Dundee
Perth – Dundee/Aberdeen/Inverness
Dunblane – Perth
Inverness – Aberdeen/Wick/Thurso/Kyle of Lochalsh
West Highland Line (Helensburgh Upper – Oban, Fort William and Mallaig)

Ross Moran, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “With the severity of Storm Floris becoming clear, our priority is the safety of our passengers and colleagues. That is why we’ve taken the decision to close some parts of Scotland’s Railway early on Monday as the worst of the conditions hit the country.

“Our engineers will also need to thoroughly inspect the network for any damage before we reopen the lines and restart train services on Tuesday morning.

“Weather specialists, based in our control room, will monitor conditions closely throughout the storm, and our teams on the ground will be ready to deal with any issues caused by the weather as quickly as possible. We appreciate passengers’ patience while we get through this unprecedented summer storm.”

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added: “The Met Office amber weather warnings for very high winds across the country will impact rail services on Monday.

“We recognise the impact that the withdrawal and alteration of train services will have on customers, but our first priority is always to ensure the safety of staff and passengers – and this is a necessary step to ensure everyone’s safety.

“We will update our website, mobile app, and social media feeds with the latest travel advice, and customers should check their journey before travelling.”