OpenRail

Helping to keep the rail network moving

We provide daily forecasts for the rail industry via the OpenRail service. In addition to standard daily forecasts, we provide detailed local forecasts to meet the needs of infrastructure contractors and train operators

Special forecasts are tailored to the needs of individual companies, and might include:

forecasts of ice on conductor rails
warnings of strong wind that might affect overhead electrification or other facilities
OpenPlatform forecasts to warn of snow and ice on station platforms and car parks

Features

Forecasts based on 32 standard OpenRail areas
Format for the local area forecasts makes hazardous weather easy to spot
Hazards covered: frost, snow, drifting snow, gales, thunder, freezing fog, heavy rain, severe spray, iceday, low temperatures, high temperatures
Outlook: up to four days ahead

Winter forecasts

OpenRail forecast provides warnings when the air temperature is likely to fall below 0 °C. There are also detailed forecasts of snow, including snow type, drifting and amount.

Summer forecasts

OpenRail forecast provides warnings when the air temperature is likely to exceed 25 °C. On sunny days, particularly in early summer, such temperatures can lead to rail temperatures in excess of 40 °C that could lead to rail buckling. The forecast also warns of thunderstorms, as lightning can cause problems with signalling.

Leaf-fall

A forecast of leaf-fall hazards is produced in collaboration with the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service (ADAS).

More about OpenPlatform

View the OpenRail forecast areas (PDF file, 443 kb)

For further information about working with the Met Office on weather solutions please contact our 24-hour Customer Centre.