For immediate release: March 20, 2018
Metro announces service changes for Wednesday in anticipation of winter storm
Metro is preparing to fully deploy resources in response to an expected winter storm that could significantly impact travel on Wednesday, March 21. Based on the current forecast, Metro is advising customers of several service changes:
Metrobus
- Metrobus service will begin Wednesday on a Moderate Snow Plan, representing a roughly 60 percent reduction in service.
- Under the Moderate Snow Plan, some bus routes do not operate, while others are subject to detours to avoid hilly terrain, narrow streets or other areas that are prone to hazardous conditions. CLICK FOR DETAILS AND MAPS.
- If District of Columbia Public Schools and Public Charter Schools are open Wednesday, Metrobus will operate special trips to provide connectivity. These trips will not operate if schools are closed.
- All bus customers should plan for delays and increased wait times due to road conditions.
- Additional service changes may be necessary as conditions warrant.
MetroAccess
- MetroAccess customers are strongly encouraged to cancel all non-essential travel on Wednesday. Customers should travel only if absolutely necessary.
- Due to weather/road conditions, service delays are expected.
- There must be a clear and safe path from the MetroAccess vehicle to the outermost exterior door of the pick-up or drop-off location in order to provide door-to-door service. If this condition is not met, the location is considered non-serviceable for door-to-door, and the driver will render curb-to-curb service.
Metrorail
- Metrorail will open at 5 a.m. with trains running on a modified weekday schedule. At this time, it is expected that trains will operate both above and below ground.
- Metro will deploy deicing trains overnight and will have plows on standby to help keep the tracks clear. Additional crews are being brought in to clear station platforms, walkways, and parking areas.
- The upper levels of Metro parking garages may be closed due to snow accumulation.
- Every effort will be made to maintain rail service; however, weather-related delays are possible. If weather conditions become severe, service may be further curtailed.
Due to the severe weather, Metro's Rush Hour Promise program will not be in effect Wednesday.
Metro will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day and will restore service when it is safe to do so. Customers are encouraged to stay informed. All changes will be announced via MetroAlerts text or email messages, on Metro's Status and Alerts page and through Metro's social media channels at @Metrorailinfo and @Metrobusinfo. To sign up for MetroAlerts, visit wmata.com/metroalerts.
