SNCF: Intercités services suspended over the weekend of 11–12 July due to extreme heat.

Paris – July 10, 2026: SNCF is suspending numerous Intercités train services over the weekend of July 11 and 12, 2026. The company said it is taking this measure due to the ongoing heatwave and the resulting risks to passengers and infrastructure. As a result, some long-distance routes are being removed from the timetable as a precaution, while TGV and Ouigo services are expected to continue operating as a priority wherever possible.

According to SNCF Voyageurs and network operator SNCF Réseau, the group is addressing two main risks: first, high rail and ambient temperatures can promote rail expansion, deformation and material fatigue. Second, the risk of air-conditioning failures increases in older rolling stock. Particularly sensitive sections will be closely monitored, with speed reductions or partial service suspensions implemented if necessary.

SNCF continues to announce which connections are being suspended through its SNCF Connect app and information pages. The selection is based on risk analyses by infrastructure management authorities, with assessment criteria including the condition of sleepers and track beds, the age of overhead lines, freight and passenger demand loads, and forecasts of peak air and rail temperatures. Train services are cancelled first on sections where sensors or previous inspections have identified high vulnerability.

The Ministry of Transport had already called for adjusted precautionary measures for rail operations at the end of June. Minister Philippe Tabarot stated that temporary timetable changes for safety reasons are permitted. SNCF is also providing information on services such as water distribution at affected stations, enhanced customer guidance and, where necessary, replacement bus services that can be arranged at short notice. However, capacity limitations remain, particularly on interregional routes.

SNCF recommends that passengers check their reservations again on the day of travel, allow plenty of time for their journey, and make use of rebooking or refund rules. Customers with Flex or Semi-Flex fares can generally make changes without a fee, and the company says it offers flexible arrangements when a booked Intercités segment is cancelled. Passengers who must travel should consider alternative routes, such as TGV services with available seats.

The background to these measures is the increasing frequency of periods of extreme heat in France. Railway companies are therefore adjusting operating procedures seasonally, for example through temperature-dependent speed controls, targeted maintenance at key points and reinforcement of cooling systems. SNCF emphasizes that these measures are preventive actions intended to ensure safe operations in exceptional weather conditions and prevent subsequent damage to tracks and rolling stock.