European lines wrecked by heavy rains and flooding
RECORD rainfall that led to devastating floods hit Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxembourg and Switzerland in mid-July, leaving sections of those countries’ railway systems in ruins. A slow-moving, low-pressure weather system over the region saw two months of average rainfall (around 10in/25cm) in just two days. With rainfall in the mountainous Ardennes and Eifel regions, as well as the Rhur, water ran down mountain and valley sides, creating a torrent which swept through towns and villages. Some of the worst flooding occurred in Belgium, where the Meuse broke its banks from the Dutch border through to Liege. Belgian infrastructure owner Infrabel said rail traffic in large parts of Wallonia was suspended, and it was prioritising repairs. Some services had returned by the end of July, but others were not expected to be back in place until the end of August. Flooding in Germany was extensive along the Mosel valley between Koblenz and Trier, and also north of Trier where many towns were flooded. At least 188 people were confirmed dead in Germany and Belgium, and many more missing after buildings collapsed through the power of the floodwater. DB said 600km (372 miles) of track and about 80 stations were badly damaged by water, mud and other debris, with more than 2000 staff involved in clean-up and repair work. In Switzerland, the Aare River burst its banks, while Lake Lucerne rose to send floodwater onto the quayside near the railway station. OFFICIAL sources in China said 12 passengers died and a further five were seriously injured after days of extensive rain in Zhengzhou (Henan province) flooded underground railway tunnels, leaving passengers trapped on trains and platforms in rising waters. Rainfall over three days was measured at 614mm (24in), close to the average annual amount. Several areas of London were hit by flash flooding on July 12, leading to suspension of services from St Pancras to Luton, services in and out of Euston, trains between Clapham Junction and Gospel Oak, and services out of Paddington.