Rail passengers in Kenilworth can expect disruption next week as temperatures soar to "exceptional" levels.

Trains in the centre of the country are set to run more slowly and less often to protect tracks in the heatwave.

Network Rail has also put a new rapid response vehicle and drone on standby in the Midlands to deal with any incidents.

Drivers are also being warned about a higher risk of breakdowns and the health risks of being stuck in a car on hot days.

West Midlands Railway announced today (July 15) that there will be changes to timetables early next week, when it's due to be hottest.

In a post on its website, the company said: "Due to safety reasons relating to the hot weather, speed restrictions will be in place on some areas of the network on Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 July.

"Work is currently ongoing with Network Rail to establish the level of service that we will be able to run, but we wanted to let you know that reduced/amended timetables will be in place, and journeys will take longer than usual.

"Details regarding the timetable that will be running will be available below as soon as confirmed. Online journey planners will also be updated in due course."

Network Rail said that their extreme weather action teams (EWATs) are "preparing all the tools at their disposal to keep passengers and freight safely on the move."

Their new van, called an Emergency Intervention Unit, has a drone, winch, toilet, cooking facilities, plugs and screens and blue light capabilities.

It was commissioned for the Commonwealth Games but could be used earlier if the extreme heat wreaks havoc with journeys.

Network Rail's Emergency Intervention Unit is expected to be in high demand next week (image via Network Rail)

Drivers in the Midlands have also been warned that temperatures increase the chances of breakdowns and impact the health of people travelling by car.

A spokesman for West Midlands breakdown company RAC said: "We strongly urge drivers in England and Wales to think carefully before they drive, and do everything they can to avoid a breakdown.

"This starts with checking the coolant and oil levels under the bonnet when the engine is cold.

"Oil should be topped up if it's low, and if coolant isn't between the 'min' and 'max' levels then drivers should top it up – or take it to a reputable garage to get it checked without delay."

He added: "Anyone who has to take to the roads in these temperatures should ensure they carry plenty of water with them and an additional camping-style water carrier is a good idea so they can top up as needed, and keep their passengers as cool and comfortable as possible too.

"Starting journeys early in the morning or later in the evening is also a good idea, to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

"Think very carefully before carrying pets in cars in these sorts of temperatures as well, and also be prepared to keep dogs under control should you have to leave your car in the event of a breakdown.

"It's also advisable to carry plenty of water – including a dog bowl if necessary – as well as an umbrella and hats for shade while waiting for assistance.

"If temperatures were to go as high as around 40°c as some are predicting, then people should question their decision to drive in the first place."

The travel warnings come as the Met Office issues a red warning – the highest alert – for the extreme heat that's expected.

"Exceptional, perhaps record-breaking, temperatures are likely on Monday, then again on Tuesday," the office said.

"Nights are also likely to be exceptionally warm for the UK, especially in urban areas.

"This is likely to lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure."

High temperatures could cause "serious illness or danger to life" and not just to people already vulnerable to hot weather, it added.

Changes to daily routines and working practices are likely to be needed, while people should also prepare for power cuts and water failures.

(Header image by David P. Howard via geograph.org.uk)