In response to the significant and ongoing disruptions impacting its network, Southern Railway has issued a critical update for passengers already undertaking journeys this afternoon. While the overarching and urgent message remains a firm plea for the public to avoid all non-essential travel for the remainder of the day, the operator acknowledges that many customers are already en route and in need of clear guidance. To address this, they have released a specific, though heavily modified, list of services that are currently operational. The company emphasizes that this information is intended solely for those already traveling, and strongly advises all others to postpone their plans, thereby reducing pressure on the severely strained network and allowing recovery efforts to proceed.
For passengers currently on the move, the following alterations to the standard timetable are now in effect. Please be advised that even these running services are subject to potential delays and will be exceptionally crowded. Passengers should prepare for the likelihood of extended waits and the possibility of needing to consider the next available departure. Travel between London Bridge and Caterham is proceeding, albeit with the warning that services on this line may experience some delays. Meanwhile, Southern services originating from London Victoria and destined for the coastal terminals of Bognor Regis and Portsmouth Harbour will be diverted from their usual route. These trains will, where operational possibilities allow, be redirected via Dorking. Consequently, there will be no service running on the direct line between the major interchange at Clapham Junction and Horsham.
Significant cancellations are also in place on other key routes from the capital. All Southern services from London Victoria heading towards Ore and Littlehampton will be truncated, running only as far south as Haywards Heath. This means the entire segment of the journey between London Victoria and Haywards Heath is cancelled for these services. Passengers aiming for stations along this cancelled portion, or those seeking to travel onward to the Sussex coast, will need to seek alternative transport options. In contrast, services on the line between London Victoria and East Grinstead are reported to be running, mirroring the Caterham line with the same caution that passengers may still encounter delays during their journey.
A complete suspension of service is reported on the branch line serving Tattenham Corner. There is currently no service operating between Purley and Tattenham Corner. Passengers with destinations along this route must arrange for alternate transportation for the entirety of that segment of their trip. This full closure underscores the localized but severe nature of the disruptions affecting parts of the network.
Southern Railway reiterates that the listed services represent the totality of what is currently running. Beyond these specific routes, widespread cancellations and alterations are in effect across the broader network. The operator advises all passengers already traveling to remain patient, allow considerably extra time for their journeys, and to stay informed via official Southern Railway channels for any further updates. The situation remains fluid, and service alterations may occur with little notice as the company works to restore normal operations.
The overarching guidance could not be clearer: if you have not yet begun your journey, please do not travel today. This directive is issued not only to prevent personal inconvenience but to assist the railway staff in their efforts to manage the situation and to prioritize the safety and mobility of those already within the system. For those who have no choice but to travel, extreme patience and preparation are essential, with the understanding that even the running services will be under immense strain. Southern Railway thanks its customers for their understanding during this challenging period.
