Kingston: All SWR trains suspended as Storm Eunice disrupts travel

By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter 19th Feb 2022

ALL South-Western Railway services have been cancelled until at least 6pm today (18 February) due to disruption from Storm Eunice.

Thirty trees have fallen on the line and the network has been hit by gusts of more than 90mph.

However. it is not yet clear if the company will be providing alternative travel to stranded commuters.

SWR announced the train cancellations on Twitter just before noon, posting: "Services are suspended across the South Western Railway Network.

"Do not attempt to travel.

"We will update you when things change."

The account went on to clarify to customers that trains had been cancelled for the rest of the day - but later updates stated that this could change as the situation is reviewed.

SWR and Network Rail have now released a joint statement on rail services.

It says: "Gusts of more than 90mph wind have caused multiple incidents across the SWR network today, with 30 fallen trees already blocking key routes.

"As a result, SWR services have been suspended until at least 18.00 and we strongly urge customers not to travel at this time. We are working hard to restore services, but ask customers to make alternative travel plans if they can.

"Customers should regularly check the 'Plan my journey' page on SWR's website, which will be updated with the latest information every hour.

"We would like to apologise to our customers for the impact this will have on their journeys, but – as always – our primary concern is the safety and welfare of customers and colleagues out on the network."

The train cancellations could leave commuters stranded and SWR is not clear on whether alternative transport will be provided. It has sent conflicting responses to customers on the SWR_Help Twitter account .

Nub News has contacted the rail company for clarification on this matter.

The news comes after a 50-foot tree fell on the tracks by Ewell West station, blocking the line between Dorking and London Waterloo.

Clapham Junction station was evacuated around midday with passengers turned away from the station due to the severe weather.

Reports the storm had forced the station's evacuation emerged on Twitter at 12:32pm.

A Customer Services spokesperson confirmed the closure, telling Clapham Nub News no one is being allowed in.

Speed restrictions have been in force today across the South-Western Railway network.

Earlier today the Met Office issued a Red Weather Warning for London and the South-East due to high winds brought about by the arrival of Storm Eunice.

Read more updates in our live-blog HERE

UPDATE: SWR and Network Rail rule out return of train services.

They said: "While we are working hard to try to restore some services later tonight, we cannot guarantee any trains will run for the rest of the day and customers should make alternative travel arrangements if possible."

     

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