Heat-Induced Switch Malfunction on LGV Atlantique Causes Train Delays of Over Two Hours

Paris – 21.06.2026: Today, a heat-related switch malfunction on the LGV Atlantique high-speed line near Saint-Léger-des-Aubées caused train delays of more than two hours. The French national railway company SNCF explained that a section of track expanded due to high temperatures, resulting in a failure of the switch.

Saint-Léger-des-Aubées is located in the Eure-et-Loir department in the Centre-Val de Loire region, about 100 kilometers southwest of Paris. The region has been affected by unusually high summer temperatures in recent days, repeatedly causing problems in rail traffic. The heat stress is putting strain on infrastructure, especially on sections of the LGV Atlantique, which is one of the main connections between Paris and western France.

Already last week, SNCF responded to the ongoing heatwave by canceling 71 Intercités trains. This decision was based on repeated failures of air conditioning systems in older Corail coaches, which are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures. The cancellations aimed to prevent breakdowns and additional delays and to ensure passenger safety.

The current delays on the LGV Atlantique have affected numerous commuters and travelers. SNCF is working intensively to fix the malfunction and restore regular operations as quickly as possible. Travelers are advised to check the current situation before departure and consider alternative connections. SNCF emphasizes that safety is the top priority and all necessary measures are being implemented to minimize disruptions in the future.

The heatwave is impacting not only rail traffic but also other areas of public life in France. Authorities have repeatedly warned of the dangers of extreme temperatures and recommended moving outdoor activities to cooler times of the day. Effects of climate change are also becoming more relevant in infrastructure planning, as heat-related material deformations like rail expansion occur more frequently.

The repeated disruptions caused by high temperatures raise questions about the adaptability of rail infrastructure. SNCF faces the challenge of better adapting its networks to increasing weather extremes to prevent future failures. For travelers, it is currently important to follow railway recommendations closely and carry sufficient water as a precaution to maintain comfort during the journey.

Overall, the incident on the LGV Atlantique highlights the need to make rail transport more resilient to climatic changes to reliably maintain operations even under extreme conditions.