Heat wave affects rail system

A record-setting heat wave in Victoria state is causing delays and cancellations on Melbourne's rail system. Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky stated on 27 January 2009 that at least 319 trains were forced to cancel services last week after numerous malfunctions occurred because of the hot temperatures. Representatives from rail operator Connex have warned that commuters will experience significant disruptions during peak hours and possible air-conditioning unit breakdowns inside the passenger cabins of some railcars. Additional repair crews have reportedly been dispatched throughout Melbourne to service trains that break down. Meteorologists predict the heat wave will continue through the next week with temperatures close to 104 degrees Fahrenheit/40 degrees Celsius.