SOURCE: Amtrak Due to the continued oppressive heat affecting the northeastern United States, Amtrak anticipates imposing speed restrictions on Amtrak-owned Northeast Corridor (NEC) tracks between Boston and Washington again today. Speed restrictions are also anticipated on portions of the Keystone Corridor between Philadelphia and Harrisburg. Passengers traveling on Amtrak and/or commuter trains that access the NEC should expect 10-20 minute delays. Amtrak is also responding to the extreme heat by stocking additional water on board trains for passengers, strategically positioning extra crews and locomotives and providing additional safety briefings for employees about working in extreme heat. Speed restrictions are implemented when internal rail temperatures (not ambient temperatures) exceed 120 degrees. Amtrak engineers monitor track temperatures in real-time via electronic probes attached to the rails in strategic locations that communicate remotely with sophisticated weather monitoring equipment. When rail temperatures exceed the threshold, trains are ordered to reduce speed to ensure the safest possible operation. As owner and steward of a majority of the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak imposes heat restrictions when necessary on all trains that access its tracks. Likewise, Amtrak trains operating over tracks owned by others are subject to heat restrictions imposed by the host railroad. Passengers who have paid but choose not to travel due to this service disruption can receive a refund or a voucher for future travel. Some tickets booked online that have not yet been printed can be modified or canceled on Amtrak or by using the free Amtrak mobile app. To be notified of major service disruptions resulting in delays of 60 minutes or more to multiple trains on the Northeast Corridor, follow @AmtrakNEC on Twitter. Amtrak regrets any inconvenience. This information is correct as of the above time and date. Information is subject to change as conditions warrant. Passengers are encouraged to call 800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak/alerts for Service Alerts and Passenger Notices. Schedule information and train status updates are available at the Amtrak home page. Robert F. Kenny, Jr. Emergency Management Area Coordinator Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Posted on: Fri, 19 Jul 2013 18:53:19 +0000
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