Are trains cancelled in Bristol? Latest on Friday rail cancellations following Storm Eunice

Just days after Storm Dudley battered the UK, Storm Eunice arrived bringing stronger winds and potential for heavy snow across the UK.

The Met Office issued a rare red weather warning for Bristol earlier today, which has now been reduced to an amber warning for wind.

The storm has caused widespread travel disruption, with roads closed, and several trains and flights cancelled. So how are trains in and out of Bristol affected today? This is what you need to know.

Will trains be cancelled from Bristol?

Storm Eunice has caused much disruption to travel across the UK, including Bristol.

Many of the trains scheduled to arrive and depart from Bristol Temple Meads have been cancelled or are experiencing delays, and rail operators including CrossCountry have issued “do not travel” warnings.

Trains between Bristol and London have been temporarily suspended today. They are scheduled to resume as normal Saturday 19 February, however passengers are advised to keep checking the status of their journey.

GWR services to Severn Beach and Weston-super-Mare are also suspended.

Mike Gallop, western route director for Network Rail, has told Sky News: “We’ve now reached a place where it is no longer safe to operate the railway and we’re going to close the western route in a controlled and safe manner, and we’re going to suspend services until it’s safe to resume them.”

According to National Rail Enquiries trains to Edinburgh, Newcastle and more are also suspended for the rest of the day. They have also warned customers not to travel today for their own safety.

CrossCountry has issued the following statement: “CrossCountry will run a severely reduced and amended service. CrossCountry strongly recommends that you DO NOT TRAVEL today.”

Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive Officer at the Rail Delivery Group said: “Storm Eunice is causing widespread damage and we’ve had to respond by closing lines to keep our customers and staff safe.”

“We’re telling people not to travel today and instead to claim a fee-free refund or use their ticket over the weekend. We are urging people to continue to check before they travel as we clear up after the storm.”

When did Storm Eunice hit Bristol?

Storm Eunice arrived in Bristol in the early hours of Friday 18 February, and the brunt of the weather is expected to last into the night.

The brunt of the wind hit at 2pm with gusts of around 50mph. Gales are expected to decrease as we move into this evening.

Gales are expected to decrease to around 45mph and temperatures are expected to drop.

By 8pm this evening gusts are expected to fall to around 20mph, and the conditions are forecast to be dry. Temperatures will feel cold hitting lows of 1 °C.

How do I check if my train is cancelled?

You can check directly with your ticket provider, and on sites such as Trainline and National Rail’s Journey Planner.

You can also check your Trainline’s social media for the latest news and updates about delays and cancellations.

Can I get a ticket refund?

CrossCountry has said that customers with tickets dated Friday 18 February may use their tickets on Sunday 20 February, however seat reservations won’t be transferred over.

The company has stated that you may be entitled to compensation if you experience a delay in completing your journey during Storm Eunice, and that you should keep your ticket to support your claim.

Tips for preventing Storm Eunice damage:

The Met Office provides the following tips for preparing for a storm:

• Close and securely fastened doors, windows, especially those facing the wind.
• Park vehicles in a garage if you have one. If you do not, keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.
• Check your heating. Ensuring your heating is working correctly is imperative during the colder months.
• Check if your home or office is at risk for flooding, and contact The Environment Agency immediately for advice and information.
• Check your insurance. Cover yourself for any potential damages from stormy weather.
• Keep up to date with all the weather updates. 
• Have basic supplies kit ready in the house like batteries, torches, bottled water, medicines and important documents in case your access gets disrupted.