5 things Network Rail are doing to keep you moving this summer

As Britain’s third heatwave of the summer continues to delight sun lovers and beachgoers, the scorching weather is placing intense strain on the country’s infrastructure, testing its resilience and adaptability.

Network Rail’s behind-the-scenes operations intensify to keep the trains moving safely, despite rising temperatures. Hot weather can affect the railway in several ways. Steel rails expand in extreme heat and can become up to 20°C hotter than the surrounding air, which increases the risk of track buckling and in severe cases, train derailments. High temperatures can cause overhead power lines to sag, which may lead to entanglement with the train’s pantograph, the device that draws electricity from the wires.

Here are 5 steps that Network Rail take to keep trains moving in the heat:

🚧 1. Adjusting tracks and overhead lines

Before summer hits, crews adjust the tension and height of power lines to stop them sagging. They also leave space between rail joints so metal can expand safely in the heat.

🎨 2. Painting tracks white

To keep rails cooler, teams paint the hottest sections white, cutting down heat absorption by up to 10°C. They also fix faults before summer to prevent heat-related disruptions.

📡 3. Using smart temperature sensors

Remote sensors monitor track temperatures in real time, helping to apply speed restrictions where necessary, so more of the network can stay running smoothly.

📢 4. Planning ahead with weather alerts

Dedicated teams track heatwaves and coordinate responses using forecasts from MetDesk. Actions may include timetable changes, extra staff and travel advice to keep passengers informed.

🌍 5. Preparing for the future

With extreme weather on the rise, Network Rail is building long-term resilience; like better drainage, stronger infrastructure, and advanced weather tools to predict heavy rain and storms earlier.

At KITE Projects, we're proud to play a role in supporting Network Rail's commitment to resilience, safety, and innovation, especially during extreme weather challenges. Whether it's supplying infrastructure solutions or helping deliver smarter, sustainable systems, we're working together to keep Britain’s railways reliable, even through summers toughest conditions.

Check out Network Rail’s article to learn more!