ScotRail is cautioning customers about potential travel disruptions due to Storm Ashley impacting train journeys on Sunday and Monday. The rail operator acknowledges the possibility of travel disruption as heavy rain and strong winds are expected to affect parts of Scotland over the weekend.
Yellow and amber weather warnings have been issued, predicting gusts of 70 to 80mph along with heavy rainfall. ScotRail has verified that services throughout the country are at risk of delays or cancellations during the storm from early evening until Monday morning.
Areas that may be particularly affected include the west and north Highlands, Ayrshire, Stranraer, and between Perth and Inverness. Precautionary speed restrictions will be implemented in these areas, leading to longer journey times and reduced services.
Customers are advised to check their journey before heading out by visiting the ScotRail website, app, or social media platforms. The severe weather conditions could impact the start of ScotRail services on Monday, as debris may have been blown onto the railway tracks. Network Rail engineers, collaborating with ScotRail, will need to inspect the routes for any damage.
Scott Prentice, ScotRail Strategy and Planning Director, emphasized the importance of safety in light of the Met Office’s amber and yellow weather warnings for Storm Ashley. He mentioned that speed restrictions will be enforced on certain routes in Scotland as a precautionary measure, resulting in extended travel times.
Prentice urged customers to stay updated by checking for live updates on the ScotRail website, app, or social media feeds before embarking on their journey. It’s crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of any changes or disruptions that may occur during the storm.
