Between April and June 2026, Great Britain saw 102,667 planned train journeys cancelled, representing a 4.1% cancellation rate, up from 80,000 cancellations (3.2%) in the previous quarter, according to The Independent. This increase marks higher disruption levels across the rail network.
Operator Cancellation Rates and Derailments
CrossCountry recorded the highest cancellation rate at 8%, double the national average. Avanti West Coast had a 7.1% cancellation rate. Nine other operators had rates above the national average, with six below it. Two trains derailed in August 2026 at Lewes and Wickford within 24 hours; preliminary investigations linked extreme heat as a leading cause.
Impact of Extreme Weather on Rail Infrastructure
Record-breaking hot and dry
weather during summer 2026 caused faults in rail tracks and overhead power lines, placing significant pressure on infrastructure. This contributed to delays and cancellations from April to June, with prolonged heat and dry conditions damaging rails and overhead lines. Avanti West Coast stated over two thirds of delays and more than 70% of cancellations in this period resulted from infrastructure problems including two major overhead line failures and external events like trespassing and a vehicle striking a bridge.
Official Statements on Disruptions and Commitments
Anit Chandarana, Group Director of System Operator at Network Rail, said, “The prolonged period of exceptional heat and dry weather placed significant
pressure on tracks and trains. That does not diminish the experience of our passengers, and we recognise that there is work for us to do.” Chandarana also apologized for the inability to provide expected service levels.
Nick Westcott, CrossCountry Service Delivery Director, stated, “We’re not satisfied with where we are and know there is more to do. We’re focused on improving reliability through increased train availability, tackling train crew availability challenges and continuing the refurbishment of our entire fleet.”
An Avanti West Coast spokesperson acknowledged the challenges, emphasizing their work with Network Rail to improve performance amidst infrastructure issues and
external disruptions.
Investment in Climate Resilience
Network Rail continues a £2.6 billion programme aiming to enhance rail infrastructure resilience to extreme weather. Two derailments in August 2026 coincided with this ongoing investment focusing on preventing weather-related failures. A Department for Transport spokesperson noted the full-year cancellation rate remains stable at 3.9% despite summer disruptions and said, “We are determined to build a railway that finally works for the public, and we’re already delivering this, taking back control by bringing train operators into public ownership as we set up Great British Railways.”
