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Track 'irregularity' found at site of Lewes train derailment, investigators reveal
Investigators said CCTV showed a pre-existing track defect on the approach, and 30 people were injured, including 20 who needed hospital treatment.
- On Wednesday, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch reported that CCTV images taken before the August 13 derailment in Lewes revealed a "track geometry irregularity" on the immediate approach to the derailment point.
- Investigators noted a "sustained period of hot and dry weather" with temperatures reaching about 27C, and RAIB images appear to show track buckling—a phenomenon associated with high temperatures and embankment sensitivity.
- The eight-carriage Southern train carried about 150 people and was traveling at about 65mph when it derailed; 30 people were injured, including 20 requiring hospital treatment.
- Network Rail announced the line between Lewes and Haywards Heath will remain closed for "at least another 10 days" while cranes lift derailed carriages for recovery and evidence preservation.
- The RAIB is conducting an independent investigation considering previous reports of "rough riding" and track maintenance history, with safety recommendations to be published upon completion of the full report.
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Major Lewes train derailment update as investigators spot 'defect'
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released an initial report into the Lewes train derailment in East Sussex last week, which injured 30 people, noting a track geometry irregularity in the area of the crash
·Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
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Train investigators find track defect on approach to site of Lewes derailment, initial report says - follow live
Two passengers were seriously injured in the incident last Thursday when three of the train's carriages came off the tracks, landing on their sides.
·London, United Kingdom
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The accident occurred during a period of persistent high temperatures in Britain.
·Helsinki, Finland
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Total News Sources18
Leaning Left2Leaning Right2Center11Last UpdatedBias Distribution74% Center
Bias Distribution
- 74% of the sources are Center
74% Center
13%
C 74%
13%
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