The UK's railways need to be able to cope with the effects of a changing climate, according to reports published by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in the UK.
Risks identified in the reports include the potential for increased flooding of rail tracks, stations and depots, tracks buckling in high temperatures, train failure in the heat and maintenance hindered by adverse weather.
The seven reports were received by Defra from Network Rail and Natural England, National Grid, the Environment Agency, Trinity Lighthouse Authority and the Highways Agency.
The reports were carried out at the request of Defra to ensure that organisations with a crucial role in running the country's infrastructure are prepared for the threats and opportunities posed by climate change.
The reports reveal roads, energy, water supply networks and other infrastructure have to withstand the impact of climate change.
In total, 91 infrastructure organisations will be asked to submit reports to Defra over the next year addressing their readiness to cope with the impacts of climate change.
Some of the measures planned to address the risks to Britain's railways include investments by Network Rail in coastal flood defences and better drainage at priority locations.
Network Rail is working with the UK's Rail Safety and Standards Board in pioneering an impact analysis study and a modelling tool to understand the impact of climate change on the railways.
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