Several train services cancelled as 'threat to life' weather warning in place
Services will be suspended from midday on Monday, August 4, as Storm Floris is set to bring dangerously high winds and heavy rain to the region.
The decision comes as the Met Office issues an amber weather warning, with wind speeds of up to 90mph expected in exposed areas.
READ MORE: Network Rail issues travel warning as Glasgow braces to be battered by Storm Floris
The severe conditions pose a significant risk to passenger and staff safety.
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.'
READ MORE: Travel disruptions and 'danger to life' expected as UK braces for Storm Floris
Train services north of Perth, including routes to Fife, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness, will be suspended, along with West Highland Line services, and those between Helensburgh Upper, Oban, Fort William, and Mallaig.
From 9am on Monday, trains running on unaffected routes will operate at reduced speeds, with a maximum speed of 50mph, which will result in extended journey times.
Other impacted services include:
Edinburgh to Fife, Perth, and Dundee
Perth to Aberdeen and Inverness
Dunblane to Perth
Inverness to Wick, Thurso, and Kyle of Lochalsh
All West Highland routes
Network Rail has warned of the increased risk of trees and debris being blown onto tracks, especially with full leaf coverage, intensifying wind damage.
Heavy rainfall is also expected, creating additional risks of flooding and landslides.
After the storm subsides, engineers will carry out detailed inspections of the railway infrastructure before services resume.
These inspections will be supported by Network Rail Scotland's aerial surveillance helicopter.
READ MORE: Glasgow upgraded to amber warning due to 'threat to life' from Storm Floris
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: '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.'
Train services are expected to resume later than usual on Tuesday, August 5, once safety inspections are complete and conditions allow.
Passengers are advised to monitor National Rail Enquiries, ScotRail's official channels, and the Met Office for real-time travel updates and [[weather]] alerts.
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The real reason weather forecasters (like me) often appear to get it wrong
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Additional reporting: Luke Mintz More from InDepth Why plane turbulence is becoming more frequent - and more severe The sale of illegal cigarettes signals a deeper problem with UK high streets How the rise of green tech is feeding another environmental crisis BBC InDepth is the home on the website and app for the best analysis, with fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and deep reporting on the biggest issues of the day. And we showcase thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. You can send us your feedback on the InDepth section by clicking on the button below. Solve the daily Crossword
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