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[CNJRoss]

Posted on WMATA web site:

Metro Service and Severe Weather


Snow covered Metrorail station

Many people rely on Metro to get where they need to go, regardless of the weather, which is why we do everything possible to provide safe and reliable transit service during inclement winter weather.

Metro has nearly 600 pieces of snow equipment available to tackle snow and ice accumulation at stations, rail yards, parking garages, and bus facilities. Hundreds of employees and contractors can be called upon to respond to snow conditions.

During periods of severe weather, Metro may limit or curtail service for safety reasons. Review the information below to know what to expect.

What to Expect During a Winter Storm

Metrorail
Metrorail can operate very close to a normal schedule in snowfall of up to six inches. However, once snow reaches a height of about eight inches, it may be necessary to suspend service above ground. Underground-only operation (PDF) allows for continuous connections to key activity centers in downtown Washington and the Pentagon, and helps ensure a more rapid return of full service by protecting rail cars from weather-related damage and allowing crews to focus on clearing snow from above-ground tracks. For more information, see Metrorail Snow Service.

Continue.

[CNJRoss]

WMATA service alert/news release, 2/12:

METRO SERVICE INFORMATION FOR THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014

Service Information for Thursday, February 13
Updated 9:45 p.m.

The Metro service area is under a Winter Storm Warning until 8 a.m. Friday.

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Metrorail

The Metrorail system will open at 5 a.m. with service expected to run on or close to a regular weekday schedule as long as conditions permit. Service levels may be reduced later in the day due to expected low ridership and deteriorating weather conditions. During the morning rush hour, an effort will be made to run trains about every 6-10 minutes on all lines.

IMPORTANT: High snowfall conditions in aboveground sections of track can result in snow and ice interacting with the electrified third rail. If conditions develop where areas of snow reach 8 inches near the third rail, it may be necessary to suspend service above ground. [Click here for a map showing underground-only operations.] Metro will provide as much notice as possible prior to implementing a suspension. All rail customers are strongly encouraged to sign up for MetroAlerts to receive notice of any service changes.

For your safety, travel only if necessary. If you must travel, plan to arrive at your destination before the worst of the storm, and be prepared to remain there until the storm passes. Check wmata.com before starting your trip or sign up for MetroAlerts to receive updated service information by email or text message.

» view current rail alerts
» more about Metrorail snow operations

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Metrobus

Metrobus service will start Thursday on Severe Snow Emergency Routing, meaning SERVICE WILL BE LIMITED ONLY TO MAJOR ARTERIES. Click here for a list of routes that are expected to operate. Buses will operate less freqently than normal, and riders should expect the possibility of delays and detours.

IMPORTANT: If conditions deteriorate where even major arteries are hazardous, it may be necessary to suspend Metrobus service entirely. Metro will provide as much notice as possible prior to implementing a suspension. Please sign up for MetroAlerts to receive updates.

For service information about individual routes, check the bus alerts page or sign up for MetroAlerts for the routes you take.

» view current bus delays & detours
» more about Metrobus snow operations

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MetroAccess

Due to the weather forecast and expected road conditions, all MetroAccess service is SUSPENDED on Thursday, February 13. Service will be restored when it is safe to do so; however a time for service restoration is not yet known.

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Metro Board Committee Meetings: The scheduled meetings of various Metro Board Committees at Metro Headquarters have been cancelled and will be rescheduled for Thursday, February 20.

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How to Stay Informed During Winter Weather Events
•Sign up for MetroAlerts for your bus or rail lines.
•Follow Metro on Twitter @wmata.
•Visit wmata.com before you start your trip.
• Call the Metro Customer Information Center at 202-637-7000.
• Listen to radio or television traffic reports.

Winter Travel Tips
• Before you start your trip, find out how Metro is serving your area and don't let yourself get stranded once you're out.
• Dress warmly. You may be outside longer than normal.
• Do not stand in the street while waiting for a bus.
• Use extreme caution when walking on exposed surfaces, including parking lots and station platforms. Never run for a bus or train.
• Report any unsafe conditions to a Metro employee.

For additional snow information, visit wmata.com/snow.