GWR

Train Trouble: Why Storm Bert is the Ultimate Party Pooper for Your Commuting Plans!

Just when you thought your Monday commute couldn't get crazier—Storm Bert crashes the party! Here's everything you need to know about GWR's train disruption.

Passengers on the West Coast Main Line are currently facing major disruptions, as severe flooding caused by Storm Bert has resulted in the cancellation of train services between Milton Keynes and Rugby. Great Western Railway (GWR) has been proactive, advising travelers to stay away from their routes today. With the heavens opening and rain pouring down, the trains are staying put and it seems like a perfect day to embrace your inner couch potato. But don't get too comfy—being stranded at home could be a recipe for disaster if it leads to your housemate stealing the last slice of pizza!

Meanwhile, GWR has completely suspended train services on all key routes, leaving many students and commuters scrambling for alternative modes of transport. With the weather resembling a British classic—rainy days and a side of chaos—customers are left with sticky umbrellas and schedules thrown into turmoil. It turns out that flooding isn’t just a threat to your shoes; it’s also wreaking havoc on your daily life. With over 180 flood warnings in place, staying dry is proving to be quite a challenge!

It's not just the trains that are feeling the consequences of Storm Bert; cars are caught in a gridlock that resembles a Monday morning in a dystopian novel. Major roads, like the A431, have been closed due to flooding, causing heavy tailbacks and turning usually smooth commutes into frustrating, snail-paced adventures. And just when you thought it couldn't get worse, Newbury station, a key hub, is also affected, with blocked lines leading to further delays. So much for rushing to that important meeting—all you can do now is scroll through your phone and hope the rain slows down!

In these trying times, remember that you're not alone. Many are sharing their tales of woe on social media, with some people even joking about starting a support group for stranded commuters. In light of this chaos, it’s also worth noting that sometimes, Mother Nature has the final word—and that word is "No!" But on the bright side, if anyone was hoping that a scene from a disaster movie would happen, congratulations! You’re living it.

Did you know that the last time a storm caused as much disruption was back in 2019 when Storm Ciara hit? That storm was corrective in rebuilding rail safety measures, and it led to numerous advancements in the way railways cope with adverse weather. Also, on a lighter note, did you know that the record for the longest train journey? It belongs to a train that once covered a whopping 17,000 kilometres from Paris to Singapore! Perhaps next time, we’ll just hop on a train and avoid the rain!