Scottish train services to finish early on Sunday due to Storm Isha
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Railway lines across Scotland will close early on Sunday after a weather warning was issued by the Met Office.
Network Rail announced that several lines will be out of use from 7pm on Sunday as Storm Isha brings severe conditions.
The Met Office has two yellow warnings in place for rain – with one in force in the south of Scotland and another which spans from Glasgow to just south of Fort William.
On Sunday, the rain warning will extend across the whole of Scotland.
An amber wind warning will come into place at 9pm on Sunday and will remain in force until 9am on Monday.
Rail services will come to an early stop on all routes outside the central belt, along with Fife, the Scottish Borders, Maryhill, East Kilbride and Kilmarnock lines.
Other services in the central belt will run on a reduced timetable and passengers can expect longer journey times, as trains will be limited to 40mph.
Storm Isha is expected to bring winds of up to 80mph in places on Sunday night, which can lead to trees and debris blocking the tracks.
Rain and melting snow will also increase the risk of landslips and flooding, potentially blocking railway lines.
Network Rail says engineers will inspect closed lines for damage after the storm subsides, warning passengers that services will start later on Monday on affected routes.
Our engineers will also need to thoroughly inspect the network for any damage before we reopen the lines and restart train services on Monday morning
The railway operator advised commuters to check their journey with National Rail Enquiries.
Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “Our priority is the safety of our passengers and colleagues and that is why we have taken the decision to close some parts of our network early on Sunday night as the worst of Storm Isha hits 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 Monday morning.
“Weather specialists, based in our control room, will monitor conditions closely throughout the weekend and our teams on the ground will be ready to deal with any issues caused by the storm as quickly as possible.”
Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, added: “We are working closely with our colleagues at Network Rail to deal with the expected impact as Storm Isha hits the country.
“The storm means we won’t be able to run trains on some routes from 7pm on Sunday and speed restrictions will be in place in other areas resulting in a reduced service and longer journey times.
“Disruption will continue into Monday as safety checks will need to be carried out in daylight.
“This is an ever-changing picture, and we urge customers to check their journey before they travel, and can keep up to date via our website, app, or social media channels.”
