An amber weather warning for Storm Claudia has triggered significant travel disruption across the West Midlands, causing widespread train cancellations and service alterations throughout Friday, 14th November 2025.
Major Service Disruptions and Cancellations
The storm has brought persistent and heavy rain, leading to severe travel chaos. Several key rail routes are experiencing major changes. All Four Oaks to Redditch services have been cancelled entirely, with road transport replacing trains between Longbridge and Redditch.
Services from Hereford and Great Malvern to Birmingham New Street are now only operating between Worcester and Birmingham. Commuters on the Chiltern Railways line face a reduced service, with Birmingham Moor Street to London Marylebone trains running just once per hour in each direction. There will be no Chiltern Railways service north of Birmingham Moor Street or on the line to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Reduced Timetables and Speed Restrictions
Further disruptions are affecting intercity travel. The Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly route is operating on a reduced service from 1pm until the end of the day due to an amended timetable. This is a direct result of speed restrictions imposed by Network Rail for safety.
Avanti West Coast has confirmed it is running a reduced timetable. The operator stated on social media that fewer trains will run and journey times will be extended because of the Network Rail speed restrictions.
Essential Travel Advice
With the amber flood and heavy rain warning still in effect, authorities are urging passengers to check their journeys before setting out. The most reliable way to get real-time information is by using the National Rail Enquiries Journey Planner. Travelers should look out for any Service Updates marked with a warning triangle.
The message from transport officials is clear: the situation remains volatile, and checking for the latest information is the safest way to navigate the ongoing disruption caused by Storm Claudia.
