Severe Weather Hits UK: TransPennine Express Delays Due to Heavy Rain and Strong Winds, Plan Your Journey

Published on December 1, 2025

A severe weather warning has been issued for passengers travelling to and from Manchester, with disruptions expected to affect TransPennine Express services. The company has advised travellers to check their journeys before setting off, as adverse weather conditions are set to impact services between Manchester and major cities in Scotland.

Met Office Forecast for Heavy Rain

The latest weather forecast from the Met Office predicts that heavy rain will begin to fall around 10 pm on Sunday night. This rainfall is expected to continue throughout Monday and into the evening, with some easing of the weather conditions later in the day. As a result of these forecasts, a yellow weather warning for rain has been issued for the Greater Manchester area and other parts of the North West, effective from 12:01 am on Monday until 3:00 am on Tuesday.

The heavy rainfall is anticipated to spread eastward across the region during the day on Monday. For Cumbria, the forecast suggests a brief period of lighter rain in the afternoon, but further heavy downpours are expected in the evening and overnight. The worst of the rain is expected to clear early on Tuesday morning.

Rainfall Projections and Potential Impact

According to the Met Office, the region could experience between 20 and 40 mm of rain, with higher ground in the North West seeing as much as 50 to 80 mm. Some areas, particularly the Cumbrian fells, could receive up to 100 to 120 mm of rain, which could lead to localised flooding. Strong winds from the south and southwest are also forecast, with the possibility of gales, especially along coastal areas and over high ground.

TransPennine Express Warns of Possible Disruptions

Due to the expected severe weather, TransPennine Express has issued a warning to passengers travelling on trains between Manchester and Scotland. The company advised travellers to check for any updates before embarking on their journeys, as services between Manchester and major Scottish cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh could be subject to delays and cancellations.

The disruptions are expected to affect both directions of travel, and passengers are encouraged to plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. TransPennine Express has recommended that customers stay informed of any changes to their scheduled services to ensure a smoother travel experience during the bad weather.

Impact on Travel: What Passengers Should Know

The heavy rain and strong winds are expected to have a significant impact on travel across the region, not just for trains but also for road traffic. As a result, commuters, tourists, and anyone else planning to travel in and out of Manchester on Monday should prepare for the possibility of delays. The weather conditions are likely to make conditions hazardous for drivers and pedestrians alike, so caution is urged when navigating through affected areas.

Passengers are also advised to allow extra time for their journeys and remain flexible in case their travel plans are disrupted by the bad weather. TransPennine Express and other rail operators are expected to provide regular updates to keep travellers informed of any changes to train schedules. For passengers who require assistance or further information, customer service teams are available to provide support and guidance.

Safety Measures During Severe Weather

With the expected weather conditions, both the rail operator and local authorities are emphasising safety during this period. It is essential that passengers take care when travelling, particularly during periods of heavy rain and strong winds. Passengers are urged to ensure they are adequately prepared for the weather, with appropriate clothing and footwear for wet conditions. Train services are likely to be slower than usual, and some routes may experience delays due to the need for extra caution during adverse weather.

In addition to the rain, the forecasted strong winds could cause further disruptions, including fallen trees or debris on the tracks, which may result in temporary service suspensions or delays. Passengers should always remain updated with the latest information from TransPennine Express and be ready to adjust their travel plans if necessary.

Regional Impact and Broader Travel Disruptions

While the main impact of the weather is expected to be felt in Manchester and the surrounding areas, the broader North West region will also experience weather-related disruptions. The heavy rain and strong winds may lead to delays in public transport, including buses and taxis, as well as challenges for road users due to flooding and reduced visibility. Motorists are encouraged to check traffic reports before heading out and adjust their routes to avoid potential hazards on the roads.

In addition, local airports, particularly in Greater Manchester, could experience delays or cancellations, particularly for incoming and outgoing flights, due to the challenging weather conditions. Passengers planning to fly from Manchester Airport should also be aware of possible disruptions and plan for extra travel time.

Monitoring the Weather

As the bad weather is expected to continue throughout Monday, passengers should regularly check weather updates and train schedules, particularly if their travel is time-sensitive. The Met Office provides frequent updates on its website and social media channels, offering the latest information on weather warnings and expected conditions in the area.

Passengers are also encouraged to sign up for service updates from TransPennine Express, which can provide real-time notifications regarding delays or cancellations of services. By staying informed and flexible, passengers can better navigate the disruptions caused by the expected heavy rain and wind.

Conclusion

With bad weather forecasted for the North West, including heavy rain and strong winds, TransPennine Express has warned of potential disruptions to its services between Manchester and Scotland. Passengers are urged to check their journeys ahead of travel and remain flexible in case of changes to their schedules. The severe weather could affect other forms of transport as well, including road traffic and air travel, so it is important for travellers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

By staying informed and prepared, passengers can help ensure a safer and more efficient travel experience, despite the challenging weather conditions.