Trains between Inverness and Beauly are currently out of service this morning after lightning strikes bring services to a standstill.
UPDATE 9.55am: The line between Inverness and Wick has reopened following lightning damage to Network Rail’s signalling system last night.
Some alterations to services are still in place, and replacement buses are in place to mitigate this.
A ScotRail spokesperson said: “We’re sorry to our customers who had their journey disrupted due to the signalling fault. Engineers worked as quickly as possible to fix the fault and get services back to normal.
“Anyone delayed by 30 minutes or more is entitled to claim money back through our Delay Repay Guarantee on our website or mobile app.”
Due to lightning damaging the signalling system ScotRail services running between the Highland capital and Wick are blocked and are unable to operate at the moment.
Disruption is expected until midday whilst Network Rail engineers deal with the issue at Clachnaharry.
NEW: Due to lightning damaging the signalling system between #Inverness + Beauly lines are blocked meaning services are unable to operate at the moment. Staff have been mobilised and will arrive on site soon. Once we have more information from the ground we will keep you updated. pic.twitter.com/dinkZZGKSr
— ScotRail (@ScotRail) July 24, 2019
Customers can complete their journey by using ScotRail tickets and/or Smartcard on Stagecoach services between Inverness and Wick at the following stations; Inverness, Beauly, Muir of Ord, Dingwall, Alness, Invergordon, Fearn, Tain, Golspie, Brora, Helmsdale, Georgemas, Thurso and Wick.
Trains between Perth and Pitlochry are also stationary due to the further lightning strikes.
Services travelling from Inverness to Edinburgh and Glasgow are affected. Staff are on site and are working hard to get services back on schedule.
