Are trains cancelled in Newcastle? Latest on Friday rail cancellations due to Storm Eunice travel disruption

Just days after Storm Dudley battered the UK, Storm Eunice has arrived bringing stronger winds and potential for heavy snow across the UK.

The Met Office has issued rare red weather warning for the south west of England, and a yellow weather warning for wind is in place for Newcastle.

The storm has caused widespread travel disruption, with roads closed, and several trains and flights cancelled. So how are trains in and out of Newcastle affected today? This is what you need to know.

Will trains be cancelled from Newcastle?

Storm Eunice has caused much disruption to travel across the UK, including Newcastle.

Many of the trains scheduled to arrive and depart from Newcastle train station have been cancelled or are experiencing delays, and rail operators including CrossCountry, LNER and TransPennine express have issued “do not travel” warnings.

CrossCountry has issued the following statement: “CrossCountry will run a severely reduced and amended service. CrossCountry strongly recommend that you DO NOT TRAVEL today.

LNER has addressed the travel disruption on its website, and is advising people against travelling.

LNER states: “Severe weather is forecast for Friday 18 February which is likely to cause significant disruption to our services.”

“Please do not travel today, Friday 18 February. Customers with tickets dated for travel on LNER services on Friday 18 February may defer their journey or claim a full refund.

“Please visit our Travel Alerts page for information on refunds and alternative travel.”

TransPennine Express has said it will be operating a minimal service and has advised customers not to travel.

How do I check if my train is cancelled?

You can check directly with your ticket provider, and on sites such as Trainline and National Rail’s Journey Planner.

Can I get a ticket refund?

CrossCountry has said that customers with tickets dated Friday 18 February may use their tickets on Sunday 20 February, however seat reservations won’t be transferred over.

The company has stated that you may be entitled to compensation if you experience a delay in completing your journey during Storm Eunice, and that you should keep your ticket to support your claim.

TransPennine Express has said that customers with tickets dated 18 February can use them on 19 February. If you don’t want to travel on Saturday, you can submit a request for a refund any time within 28 days of 18 February and there will be no admin fee.

Meanwhile, LNER has said that tickets dated Fri 18 February will be accepted for travel from Sat 19 to Tue 22 Feb. If you would prefer not to travel on these dates, you are entitled to a full refund and you can check LNER’s website for details.

When is Storm Eunice set to hit Newcastle?

The Met Office issued a yellow warning for wind, which covers Newcastle and some of the surrounding areas.

The early hours of this morning in Newcastle saw widespread snow, which was heavier in places throughout the wider north east region.

Temperatures are set to hit lows of -3°C in the Newcastle area.

The warning is in place from 7am to 6pm on February 18.

In Newcastle gusts of wind are set to peak at 3pm, hitting up to 50mph. The winds will gradually ease throughout the rest of the day, but only dropping to 30mph late this evening according to the Met Office.

What does a yellow warning from the Met Office mean?

The Met Office has three types of weather warnings: yellow, amber and red.

Yellow is the most common warning, and is usually issued when weather conditions will cause some disruption to travel.

Tips for preventing Storm Eunice damage:

The Met Office provides the following tips for preparing for a storm:

• Close and securely fastened doors, windows, especially those facing the wind.
• Make sure your car has a winter kit in case you get stranded. These include de-icer, food, drink, in-car phone charger, high visibility clothing, warm clothes and blankets as well as jump leads.
• Check your heating. Ensuring your heating is working correctly is imperative during the colder months.
• Check if your home or office is at risk for flooding, and contact The Environment Agency immediately for advice and information.
• Check your insurance. Cover yourself for any potential damages from stormy weather.
• Keep up to date with all the weather updates. 
• Have basic supplies kit ready in the house like batteries, torches, bottled water, medicines and important documents in case your access gets disrupted.
• Park vehicles in a garage if you have one. If you do not, keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.