NSW TrainLink has warned passengers that it cannot guarantee XPT rail services will be fully replaced by road coaches during bushfire conditions this week.
Some XPT services from Melbourne to Sydney via Wagga were replaced with road coaches over the weekend due to "catastrophic bushfire conditions between Moss Vale and Sydney".
Road closures along the Hume Highway on Saturday meant that Sydney-bound Coach passengers risked their journey ending at Goulburn.
XPT's ticket booking website warned on Monday afternoon that "due to bushfires...NSW TrainLink cannot guarantee travel on the Western Intercity, Western Regional, Southern Highlands and Southern Regional services including Canberra, for the next 48 hours.
"We ask customers to reconsider all non essential travel. We thank you for your understanding."
A NSW TrainLink spokesperson told The Daily Advertiser that some rail lines might close due to the current state of emergency.
"Where possible road coaches will replaces trains which could cause delays, however in some instances this may not be possible," the spokesperson said.
"We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable break with family and friends but it's important to plan ahead, and if necessary make alternate arrangements or delay travel."
Transport for NSW has advised both motorists and train passengers "to delay their trip and avoid non-essential travel".
"Motorists already in bushfire-affected areas should follow the directions of emergency services and traffic crews and keep in mind that conditions can change quickly," a Transport for NSW statement said.
NSW Roads Minister Paul Toole said it was important motorists put the safety of themselves and their passengers first by keeping up to date with bushfire information.
"We know a lot of people will be on the roads over the festive season and it's critical they stay alert to changes in bushfire conditions and potential road closures," he said.
"We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable break with family and friends but it's important to plan ahead, and if necessary take a different route or delay travel.
"By checking the Live Traffic NSW and the Fires Near Me NSW apps motorists can easily see what roads are being impacted by bushfires before they set off."