London Tube and Train Disruptions After Heavy Rain and Flooding

Commuters in London and southeast England are facing significant disruptions due to heavy rainfall and flooding that occurred overnight. The Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), the largest rail franchise in the UK, has warned that all its services, including Great Northern, Gatwick Express, Southern, and Thameslink, will be affected. Precautionary measures have led to reduced train speeds on several lines south of London, impacting routes to Brighton, Gatwick airport, and East Croydon, among others. Flooding has caused the complete suspension of services at Selhurst station, and some Thameslink trains are making stops at Norwood Junction to assist passengers. The situation is fluid, with GTR unable to provide specific estimates on delays due to the unpredictable nature of the weather and its impact on various locations across the network. In addition to rail disruptions, the Tube network is also experiencing issues, with Transport for London reporting widespread problems. Drivers on the M25 are facing delays and diversions due to flooding at a major junction, with Highways England advising commuters to consider alternative routes into London. The reliance on a third rail power supply for trains south of the Thames makes the network particularly vulnerable to flooding, as rising water levels can lead to short circuits and necessitate speed reductions to prevent damage. The combination of flooding and signal failures is further complicating travel for those in the affected areas.