Heatwave: SNCF cancels Intercités services to protect passengers

Paris – 11.07.2026: The persistent heatwave is significantly affecting French rail transport. SNCF has therefore proactively removed numerous Intercités services from the timetable. According to consistent reports, the restrictions particularly affect the Paris–Clermont-Ferrand, Paris–Limoges–Toulouse and Bordeaux–Marseille routes. Travelers should expect cancellations and changes during the weekend before the National Day on July 14.

According to media reports, around one third of the planned Intercités services on the three affected lines have been cancelled. The main aim of the measure is to reduce the risk of older trainsets or their air-conditioning systems failing due to the exceptional heat. The SNCF wants to prevent passengers from having to remain for long periods in a stationary train without sufficient cooling in the event of a breakdown.

The restrictions coincide with a period of intense travel activity. Many people use the long weekend around the French National Day to travel on holiday. The preventive reduction in services may therefore force passengers to alter their plans. The SNCF advises travelers to check their connection through the usual information channels before departure and to pay attention to notices of possible alternatives.

High outdoor temperatures do not only affect train air conditioning. Rails, overhead lines, signalling technology and electrical components are also subject to additional strain. Metals expand in the heat, while overhead lines can sag. This can make speed restrictions necessary. In extreme cases, technical failures may occur that temporarily interrupt traffic on a line.

SNCF Réseau says it prepares for such weather conditions even before summer. The infrastructure company monitors particularly vulnerable sections and uses rail-temperature forecasting tools. Rail temperatures can be significantly higher than the measured air temperature. In addition, inspection runs and maintenance work are intensified when weather forecasts indicate exceptional heat stress.

However, the cancellations now decided also show the limits of these preventive measures. Instead of running trains with an increased risk of breakdowns, SNCF is opting for a reduced service that is easier to manage. The decision mainly affects Intercités connections using rolling stock considered particularly prone to failures at very high temperatures. TGV services have not been suspended across the board, although they may also be affected by isolated adjustments.

For passengers, the key issue remains whether their specific booked train is running and what alternative is offered. In the event of a cancellation, railway companies inform their customers by email, SMS or telephone, according to SNCF Connect, provided they have the relevant contact details. Tickets for cancelled connections can be exchanged or refunded in accordance with the applicable conditions. Further developments will depend on temperatures and the technical condition of the network.