Two with 'severe' injuries after Lewes train derailment

Two passengers sustained severe injuries when a Southern Rail train derailed near Lewes, East Sussex, on Thursday afternoon, August 13, 2026.

According to the latest update from the British Transport Police (BTP), the two individuals taken to major trauma centres with severe injuries are not in a life-threatening condition. An additional 18 passengers who suffered less serious injuries have all been treated and discharged from the hospital. 

Incident Overview

• The Train: The 14:24 BST Southern service was travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne with approximately 150 passengers on board. 
• The Derailment: At approximately 15:51 BST, the rear three carriages of the train derailed and tipped onto their sides along a raised embankment just north of Lewes station. 
• Emergency Response: A major incident was declared. Ten fire engines, technical rescue teams, and three air ambulances rushed to the scene. 
• Community Aid: Local residents opened the Lamport Community Hub to provide immediate shelter, refreshments, and medical relief to passengers during extreme 38°C heatwave conditions. 

Current Investigation & Travel Disruption

• The Cause: While early passenger accounts and images show a buckled track—potentially exacerbated by the heatwave—Network Rail and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) state it is too early to officially confirm the cause.
• Route Closures: All lines between Haywards Heath and Lewes remain completely closed.
• Disruption: The lines will remain blocked until investigation teams finish gathering evidence and safely clear the complex site. Passengers are advised to use alternative routes or rail replacement buses until further notice