Train journeys have been cancelled due to the risk of severe flooding as Christmas travel rush begins. 

Greater Anglia will be replacing its Norwich to Lowestoft services with buses from 9pm today (Thursday, December 21) until midday on Friday following advice issued by the Environment Agency. 

A section of the line near Haddiscoe will be temporarily closed due to a significant risk of flooding after an expected tidal surge.

This is the same area that was damaged due to flooding in January 2022 and was forced to close for nearly a week. 

Katie Frost, Network Rail route director for Anglia, said: "Our priority is the safety of our staff, passengers and members of the public.

"The risk of flooding on the line between Norwich and Lowestoft means we’ve taken the difficult decision to close it.

"I am sorry that this will disrupt journeys at a time when many of our customers are getting ready for Christmas, but we must put safety first.

"We will have people on-site monitoring the situation, will do a thorough track inspection on Friday morning and will work closely with Greater Anglia to reopen the line as soon as possible once we are assured it is safe to do so."

READ MORE: Flood barriers to be deployed as Storm Pia hits region

Cantley, Reedham, Haddiscoe, and Somerleyton are not accessible by the rail replacement bus service due to access issues and customers at these stations are advised to use the station help points to contact the customer service team who will arrange taxis.

There are flood alerts in place across the county as well as a yellow weather warning for wind until 9pm today. 

The Met Office has warned of travel disruption as Storm Pia brings winds of up to 60mph to the region. 

The AA has advised drivers to be alert to debris and flooded sections on the roads and to be prepared for delays and diversions.