As climate change continues to reshape our world, the railway industry faces unprecedented challenges that threaten the reliability and safety of this vital mode of transportation. In our ‘Weather on the Warpath’ blog series, we delve into the battle between climate change and railway operations, exploring how extreme weather conditions - Heat, Cold, Wind, and Rain impact the rail network and what can be done to enhance railway resilience.
Heat
Cold
Wind
Rain
Our first instalment explores the increasing challenges that rising temperatures and heatwaves bring to railway infrastructure. While railways are often celebrated for their sustainability, extreme heat can lead to track buckling, overhead lines sagging and more.
The next article focusses on the other end of the thermometer, looking at the challenges of cold weather, including snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. From snowdrifts to the dangers of avalanches in mountainous regions, we examine the technologies and strategies to mitigate these risks.
Next in our whirlwind series of rail weather resilience we address the impact of high winds on railway operations. From the direct threat of trains and structures being toppled to the indirect threats of windblown debris and falling trees, we’ll highlight the various challenges that strong winds present.
Finally, we get our feet wet tackling the significant challenges that excess rainfall brings. From the direct challenge of flooding impairing operations and even endangering lives, we also consider indirect threats such as washouts, landslides and scour.
Join us on this seasonal stroll uncovering the complexities of climate change and its effects on railways.
What are you waiting for? Get stuck in to your first weather article and if you rate it, share it with the button at the top.
