Rail passengers across Lincolnshire are being urged to travel only if absolutely necessary as the county braces for potentially record-breaking temperatures and major disruption during an unprecedented June heatwave.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has advised customers to make only essential journeys on Wednesday and Thursday after the Met Office issued rare red weather warnings covering large parts of England and the Midlands. Temperatures could approach 40C in some parts of the country, with forecasters warning of significant impacts on transport, health services and infrastructure.

The warning comes as thousands of visitors are expected to head to the Lincolnshire coast, with resorts including Skegness, Ingoldmells and Mablethorpe likely to see a surge in visitors seeking relief from the soaring temperatures.

EMR says services will continue to run but passengers should expect delays and disruption as speed restrictions are introduced to protect railway infrastructure from the extreme heat. Journeys are likely to take longer and amended timetables may be introduced at short notice.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has advised customers to make only essential journeys on Wednesday and Thursday after the Met Office issued rare red weather warnings.

placeholder image — East Midlands Railway (EMR) has advised customers to make only essential journeys on Wednesday and Thursday after the Met Office issued rare red weather warnings.

Customers who must travel are being encouraged to complete journeys before midday where possible, avoiding the hottest part of the day.

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at EMR, said: "High temperatures are expected throughout the UK this week and a rare red alert to health has been issued by the Met Office applicable to much of EMR's network on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June.

"We strongly urge our customers to check their journey before travelling with us and continue to monitor for updates throughout the week, as conditions and service levels may change at short notice.

"If you do have to travel, please carry a water bottle with you and allow extra time to complete your journey."

Passengers are being advised to carry water, wear loose-fitting clothing and seek shade where possible while waiting for trains.

The heatwave is expected to affect both inland Lincolnshire and coastal areas, with health officials warning that the extreme temperatures could pose risks not only to vulnerable people but also to healthy adults spending long periods outdoors. The Met Office has warned that red weather warnings indicate dangerous conditions with the potential for significant disruption and risks to life.

The warning comes at the start of what is expected to be a busy period for the coast, with schools preparing to break up for summer events and visitors already flocking to seaside resorts.

Rail services are also continuing to be affected by ongoing disruption on the Midland Main Line following the recent collision near Bedford, with replacement buses still operating between Bedford and Luton.

EMR is urging passengers to check before they travel and allow extra time for journeys throughout the remainder of the week.

For the latest travel information, passengers should visit the East Midlands Railway website before setting off.