RAIB finds track buckle likely caused Lewes derailment on hottest day of the year

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch's initial report found a track defect on the approach to the Lewes derailment site, with imagery appearing to show the rail buckled before the 13 August crash that injured 30. The derailment occurred on the year's hottest day; rails expand in heat and can buckle without compression relief. The finding may prompt review of heat-related track inspection protocols.