Rail network continues to suffer due to heatwave

Melbourne's rail network suffered further delays and cancellations on 30 January 2009 as commuters braced for a third day of record high temperatures. The heat wave has resulted in more than 500 train cancellations over the past three days. In response to the heat wave chaos, the Australian government announced that free travel will be provided for all commuters on trains, trams and buses throughout Victoria on 30 January. The massive heat wave has also overburdened power stations in Victoria state, leaving thousands without power and forcing authorities to consider implementing power restrictions. Interstate power is reportedly being used to keep the network running because many Victoria power stations cannot meet the demand. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an extreme UV weather warning and advised Victorians to prepare for several more days of record heat.