Salford train passengers have been told to brace for major disruption as operators across Britain slash services in response to the hot weather.
Regional transport provider Northern Rail has reduced the number of trains servicing Salford Crescent and Salford Central rail stations through the middle of the week.
The train operator has also asked commuters travelling from Salford stations to allow extra time for journeys as hot-weather speed restrictions are in place.
The move to scale back services comes after an amber health alert was issued for the North West as a sweltering heatwave grips the nation.
It will come into force from 1am on Wednesday 24 May until 11pm on Thursday 25 June with temperatures forecast reach 36C on Thursday.
Fewer trains will run between Manchester Victoria and Southport, and between Manchester Victoria and Blackburn, with passengers travelling through Salford among those affected.
A spokesperson for Northern Rail said: “If you’re travelling this week, please allow extra time for your journey and check before you travel.”
“Please stay hydrated when travelling, station staff are available to help.”
Northern confirmed passengers can board trains at different times than the one they purchased a ticket for should their scheduled journey be cancelled or delayed amid the hot weather.
“Northern tickets dated Tuesday 23, Wednesday 24 or Thursday 25 June can be used on any earlier service on the same day, or any Northern service on Friday, 26th June.”
The industry is preparing for issues caused by extreme temperatures, such as sagging overhead electric wires, buckled rails and lineside fires.
Passengers have been advised to travel earlier in the day if possible, and carry a water bottle.
Online journey planners are not showing correct timetables until the day of travel because of short notice cancellations.
