An intense heatwave with temperatures approaching 40–41 °C is placing significant strain on the French rail network. To mitigate operational risks, SNCF Voyageurs has pre-emptively cancelled 71 Intercités services between 18 and 22 June across three key corridors: Paris–Orléans–Limoges–Toulouse, Paris–Clermont-Ferrand and Bordeaux–Marseille, with most withdrawals concentrated during the hottest part of the day.
The primary technical issue lies in the ageing Corail coaching stock deployed on these routes, whose HVAC systems are prone to failure above 33 °C. Infrastructure-related risks are also a concern: रेल expansion can lead to track deformation, while catenary sag compromises safe operation. Consequently, speed restrictions have also been imposed on certain high-speed lines.
In Île-de-France, RER and Transilien services have also seen notable cancellations, with only RER Line A maintaining normal operations. Île-de-France Mobilités has urged passengers to defer non-essential travel.
To limit disruption, SNCF Réseau has deployed maintenance teams, while SNCF Voyageurs is offering free ticket changes and refunds. Passengers are advised to check real-time updates via SNCF Connect before travelling.