WEATHER warnings have been issued for rain and wind across Scotland with Storm Isha expected to bring winds of up to 70mph on Sunday night and into Monday.
With a Met Office amber weather warning in place, passengers are being advised to check before travelling as high winds, heavy rain and melting snow could affect railway services this weekend.
Gusts of around 50mph will hit the country on Saturday with 40mm of rain due to fall in some parts of the west coast, central belt and southern Scotland.
Speed restrictions may need to be introduced as the weather develops as slowing trains down reduces the chances of striking obstructions on the line.
READ MORE: Snow closes Scottish schools for fifth day amid Storm Isha warning
Network Rail
The rail operator has said it will have additional teams, including chainsaw-trained staff, ready to remove trees and debris blown on to the tracks during the extreme weather.
The railway’s specialist meteorologists will also be monitoring conditions in real-time to help plan the industry’s response to the severe conditions..
Liam Sumpter, route director, Network Rail Scotland, said: “The severe weather we’re expecting over the weekend, particularly when Storm Isha arrives, will mean disruption to journeys is likely.
“Our teams will be working around-the-clock to repair any damage caused by the weather, while removing debris from the line and tackling any water build-ups".
READ MORE: Storm Isha: 'Danger to life' weather warning issued for Scotland
ScotRail
Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, said: “We are working closely with our colleagues at Network Rail to assess the impact of the adverse weather across the country over the next few days.
“It’s likely that there will be some changes to ScotRail services, which could mean cancellations, or longer journey times in the areas most affected."
Customers should note that any tickets purchased for travel on Wednesday, January 17 and Thursday, January 18, will be valid for Friday, January 19 and Saturday January, 20.
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SP Energy Networks
The network operator shared its top tips for being prepared in disruptive weather:
- Have the national 105 emergency helpline on hand – it’s best to keep this on the fridge or saved in the contacts on your mobile phone.
- Store a battery or wind-up torch – leave this somewhere you can access easily so you can use the torch to check on the fuse box and make your way around the house safely.
- Beware of fallen power lines – power lines may have fallen because of high winds so beware of this when venturing out of your home. Do not approach, and call 105 to report a fallen power line
- Keep your mobile charged – having your mobile phone charged means you can call the national 105 emergency helpline. It’s also worth having an analogue phone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply
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