Published on
December 31, 2025
A power failure in the Channel Tunnel has caused widespread disruptions for Eurostar and LeShuttle services, impacting thousands of travelers. Eurostar, the high-speed rail service between the UK and France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, and LeShuttle, which carries vehicles and passengers through the tunnel between Folkestone (UK) and Calais (France), were severely affected by this technical issue. Here’s the current scenario and how travelers can manage the ongoing disruption.
What Happened? Understanding the Disruption
On December 30, a power outage in the Channel Tunnel caused a halt in services, affecting both Eurostar and LeShuttle. The fault in the overhead power supply system led to a full shutdown of services, leaving many travelers stranded. By midday, several Eurostar services were canceled between the UK, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, while LeShuttle services were paused due to a broken-down shuttle train inside the tunnel.
Currently, services have partially resumed, with only one of the tunnel’s two tracks operational. However, due to the reduced capacity, significant delays are expected to continue. Travelers heading into the New Year holiday period are facing ongoing uncertainty about travel times and routes.
Solutions for Affected Travelers: What You Can Do Right Now
If you are one of the many travelers impacted by this disruption, here are the key steps to take and solutions to manage your journey effectively:
1. Check Service Status Before Traveling
- Stay updated: The first thing you should do is check the live updates from Eurostar and LeShuttle. Both operators are providing real-time information about cancellations and delays.
- Eurostar website and LeShuttle service updates: These are the best sources of the latest information on service resumptions and delays.
- Use social media platforms: Follow official accounts for real-time updates as they often post the quickest changes.
2. Rebook or Request a Refund
- Eurostar’s free exchanges: If your Eurostar service was canceled, you are entitled to rebook for a later date without any additional charge. If you’re unable to rebook, refunds are available.
- LeShuttle cancellations: LeShuttle has also offered refunds for affected passengers and allowed free rebooking for later travel dates.
- Avoid waiting at stations: If your train has already been canceled, do not go to the station as it will only add to the congestion and frustration.
3. Alternative Routes
- If you are stuck in the UK and Eurostar or LeShuttle services are still not available, consider flights or ferry services as alternatives to get to your destination.
- Ferry services between Dover and Calais are operating as normal, though you may experience increased demand and longer wait times due to the high volume of travelers.
4. Stay Flexible and Be Patient
- Delays are expected: With only one tunnel track in use, Eurostar and LeShuttle services are running at a reduced capacity. Be prepared for long waiting times and potential last-minute cancellations.
- If possible, delay your travel until the situation stabilizes in a few days. This might allow you to avoid further delays, particularly around New Year’s Eve, when train stations are busiest.
5. Seek Accommodation if Needed
- Extra hotel nights: For those whose travel plans have been disrupted overnight, Eurostar and LeShuttle are offering hotel accommodation in cases where passengers are left stranded due to cancellations.
- Check local hotels: If the disruption causes you to miss your train or shuttle, you may need to book accommodation for a night in London, Paris, or Brussels, depending on where you are.
- Alternative options: If official accommodation isn’t available, check for local hotels or Airbnb listings near major train stations for quick bookings.
What Eurostar and LeShuttle Are Doing to Resolve the Situation
Both Eurostar and LeShuttle are working with engineers to repair the overhead power supply system in the Channel Tunnel. Full service restoration is expected within the next 24–48 hours, but delays will continue to affect travel for the remainder of the week.
- Limited capacity: Eurostar is running a reduced number of trains, prioritizing high-demand routes, such as between London and Paris.
- LeShuttle is working to increase the frequency of shuttles once repairs are completed, but expect delays of up to five hours in some cases.
Travel Alerts and Government Advisories
The UK Department for Transport and French authorities are in constant communication with Eurostar and Eurotunnel to monitor the situation and provide guidance to passengers. Travel advisories recommend that passengers not travel unless absolutely necessary, and that they rebook or cancel their tickets via official channels.
What’s Next: Expect Delays for the Next Few Days
As the Channel Tunnel works toward full recovery, travelers can expect ongoing delays and possible cancellations throughout the New Year holiday. Passengers should stay flexible, allow extra time for their journeys, and have a backup plan in place in case of further disruptions.
- If you’re traveling during the holiday season, especially with family or friends, consider alternative routes or flexible travel dates to avoid further delays.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Prepared
The ongoing power failure in the Channel Tunnel has caused significant disruptions to Eurostar and LeShuttle services. While services are gradually resuming, delays and cancellations are expected to continue over the next few days. Travelers should keep checking official updates from Eurostar and LeShuttle, and plan for alternative routes and accommodation if necessary. Being flexible with travel dates and staying informed will help you navigate through these disruptions effectively.
