Brits warned to expect delays to train journeys this week as tracks affected by hot weather
THE scorching heat expected in the next few days could cause rail chaos in many parts of the UK.
London and south-east England are expected to see highs of 29C and clear skies during the afternoon today, making the country hotter than parts of the Maldives.
The heatwave will continue into next week, with temperatures set to soar above 32C on Tuesday, potentially making it the warmest day of the year so far.
While Brits may be hoping for a day trip to the seaside to soak up the sun - many could face problems getting there if they go by train.
Network Rail has warned the weather could cause lines to “expand and sometimes buckle”, throwing services into chaos.
A spokesman told the : “With extremely hot temperatures expected this week, our specialist weather teams will be monitoring key hotspot locations to make sure we can keep services running safely and reliably.
Read More on the Weather
“Speed restrictions are likely to be in place in some parts of the network most affected by the hot weather.
“This helps because slower trains exert less force on the track and reduce the likelihood of buckling.
“However, where speed restrictions are in place, journeys can take longer, so we advise passengers to plan ahead and carry a bottle of water with them.”
It comes after water bosses urged customers to cut down by not washing their cars or using a sprinkler on their lawn.
Most read in The Sun
Anglian asked its four million customers to limit showers to five minutes, avoid washing cars and to “learn to love a brown lawn”.
Yorkshire Water called for four-minute showers — and even created a tailor-made playlist of songs.
And Severn Trent urged customers to turn off the tap while they brush their teeth — and urged gardeners to use a watering can instead of a hose.
Parents have also been warned to keep children safe in the scorching sun and stop them undertaking "vigorous physical activity."
And Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud urged those in areas worst affected by scorching heat to keep in the shade, cover windows and check on the elderly and the vulnerable.
"Sun protection is a must,” he told .
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warning will be in force from July 11 until July 15, including regions in the South East and East of England.
Read More on The Sun
The warnings come as the Met Office said the hottest day in Britain could be broken this week.
Forecasters have advised people in the southeast to stay in the shade, cover windows and check on vulnerable and elderly people as temperatures rise.
