Greater Anglia urges people not to travel as temps soar in the East
They're running a reduced service
People in Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk are being told to avoid travelling by train today unless absolutely necessary.
Greater Anglia says services are likely to be disrupted or cancelled due to the hot weather and the potential risk for sagging overhead wires and buckling train tracks.
Juliette Maxam is from Greater Anglia: "Network Rail has asked us to run our trains slower than usual because they're worried about the tracks, signals and overhead wires in the extreme heat.
"If we run our trains slower it's a bit easier on the tracks, signals and overhead lines, and so there's less likelihood of damage."
Juliette says they're also being impacted by fires caused by the extreme weather: "Yesterday there was a fire in a field near Great Chesterford station, which spread to a building next to our station.
"Today we've had to close the station because we need to check that it's structurally sound because there are some wooden beams underneath the platforms." She says it's becoming a regular occurrence for the company: "We've had quite a few fires during the summer so far and we have them every year...
"When there are fires next to the railway, this causes us problems because, if you've got billowing smoke, the train drivers can't see the signals and it's therefore not safe for them to travel."
For those who do need to travel, the number of services running to and from London has been reduced, and all trains are having to run at a slower speed.
Juliette says there's still a risk when travelling, as the trains are facing temperatures previously unseen in the UK: "There is a likelihood of disruption because we've not had these temperatures in this country before, so our railway hasn't been tested to those temperatures...
"Most of our trains are air conditioned now and that's fantastic while you're travelling, but if there is a problem and we lose power to our trains, you might be stuck on a train with no air conditioning and no opening windows in sweltering temperatures...
"If you can't avoid traveling, allow extra time for your journey. Be prepared for a long wait and make sure that you're wearing loose, cool clothing and carry water with you."
If you are planning on making any journeys via rail or road tomorrow, you're advised to check your route before setting off.
Great Northern
Greater Anglia isn't the only rail company in our region making changes today due to the heat.
Great Northern isn't running any services north of London today, which means no trains to or from King's Lynn at all.
Here's how to stay safe in hot weather:
Look out for the vulnerable
Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
Close curtains
Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
Avoid excess alcohol
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
Never leave children or pets in locked car
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Check equipment’s work properly
Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.
Stay in doors at peak sun hours
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
Stay in shade
Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
Take breaks
Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
Always have water
Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
Follow safety advice
Take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down.
Check medicines
Check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging.