09.07.13
Heatwave prompts speed restrictions as tracks hit 50C
Speed restrictions had to be imposed on routes into and out of London Waterloo yesterday, with Network Rail blaming antiquated wooden bearers.
The 20mph limit was imposed as a precaution on the stretch of track between Clapham Junction and Nine Elms/Battersea, according to the Evening Standard.
A spokeswoman for South West Trains said: “We carry out a significant amount of work to prepare for the impact of hot weather by using hydraulic machines to artificially stress the rails ... over the weekend we have seen temperatures on our tracks of almost 50C. The ageing condition of our infrastructure has meant that despite this preparation work, we have had to impose speed restrictions.”
The operator cancelled some services and others only stopped at certain stations.
With more hot weather predicted, Network Rail has said the safe temperature threshold may be repeatedly breached.
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