Extreme summer temperatures are affecting railway travel in Macedonia, with trains temporarily forced to slow down to a maximum of 50 kilometers per hour during the hottest part of the day. According to the Regional Crisis Management Center for Skopje, railway traffic continues to operate regularly, but a special speed restriction has been introduced because of the intense heat. Between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on August 22, trains will not be allowed to travel faster than 50 kilometers per hour. The measure was introduced as a safety precaution, as intense heat can affect railway infrastructure, particularly metal tracks that expand as temperatures rise.
Passengers should therefore expect longer journeys while the restrictions are in force. Train services have not been suspended, and railway traffic continues to operate, but the reduced speed could mean delays on some routes. The restrictions apply during the hottest hours of the day, when direct sunlight can cause rail temperatures to rise significantly above the official air temperature. Railway networks in many countries use temporary speed restrictions during periods of exceptional heat to reduce risks to infrastructure and allow trains to continue operating safely.
For travelers in Macedonia, the most important information is that trains are still running. However, anyone planning to travel by rail between late morning and the afternoon should be prepared for possible delays and longer travel times, especially if they have connecting transportation or appointments after arriving at their destination. The Regional Crisis Management Center said the railway system remains operational despite the restrictions, with the speed reduction intended to keep services running safely rather than stopping trains altogether. The temporary 50 km/h speed limit shows how the current heat wave is affecting everyday infrastructure in Macedonia. From increased pressure on transportation systems to concerns about infrastructure exposed to prolonged high temperatures, the effects are being felt beyond the weather forecast. For train passengers, the message is simple: the trains are still running, but on August 22, extreme summer heat is putting the brakes on their speed.
