Lightning strikes cause train delays and cancellations

Update: No FCC trains are running between Gatwick and Brighton currently. The train operator has asked passengers to use alternative means of transport if possible. ‘Severe’ delays are expected at rush hour this evening.

East Coast, First Capital Connect, First Hull Trains and Grand Central have been affected by lightning strikes ‘damaging signalling equipment’, causing delays and cancellations.

Services between London’s Kings Cross & Moorgate, Finsbury Park, Alexandra Palace, Welwyn Garden City & Hertford North, Peterborough & Cambridge and Stevenage have all been affected.

Trains are being delayed by up to 90 minutes whilst Network Rail ‘are doing their best to repair the damaged signalling’.

All FCC services from Kings Cross have been suspended until 15:40 to deal with ‘severe congestion’, but services from Moorgate will continue to run.

Passengers are able to use their FCC tickets on National Express East Anglia trains, London Underground, London buses and Croydon’s Tramlink.

FCC have also said they have arranged for rail replacement buses between Welwyn Garden City & Stevenage and Hertford North & Stevenage.

First Capital Connect have told their customers to ‘expect further delays and short notice cancellations’.