BNSF Customer Notification
Responding to Tropical Storm Nicholas
Sep 14, 2021
Tropical Storm Nicholas is moving slowly through the Houston area this afternoon as it continues to weaken. The storm brought high winds and heavy rain after making landfall as a hurricane during the overnight hours. Some parts of the region, particularly along the Texas coast, are currently experiencing power outages with flooding reported in multiple locations.
BNSF responded to some washouts along our main line running inland from Galveston Island. Track inspections are ongoing, and work teams have been deployed to address affected segments. We expect service to/from Galveston to be restored by morning. Portions of connecting lines on other carriers, which involves BNSF trackage rights through the region, are also experiencing service outages. Some customers with shipments designated to move through the area may experience delays until operations have normalized.
As the storm advances eastward, several inches of additional rainfall is expected across southern Louisiana during the next few days. Flash flood watches are in effect across the area, including New Orleans. Our operating teams are closely monitoring the conditions, and we have pre-positioned track equipment and supplies, including ballast, to quickly address any impacts to our network.
If you have questions about shipment(s) moving through the region, please contact your BNSF representative or BNSF Customer Support at 1-888-XXX-XXXX.
We will provide additional updates to customers on this situation.
