Using Metro In A Snowstorm

You can count on Metro to get you where you need to go as safely as possible. But you can also count on Mother Nature to hit our region with at least a couple of significant snow storms a season.

Metro has made some changes to better cope with heavy snow. We've added extra protection to the motors in 350 rail cars to make them less vulnerable to the elements. On other cars, we've added de-icing units and ice scrapers to help keep the electrified third rail?which provides power to run the train? clear of snow and ice. However, even with these improvements, heavy snow can take its toll on Metro service.

How much snow is too much snow?

For the most part, Metrorail operates very close to a normal schedule in snows of four to six inches. You might experience minor inconvenience caused by train overcrowding when commuters abandon their cars and use Metro. Delays can result when trains must be pulled because snow build-up causes the electronics on the undercarriage of the railcar to malfunction. Sometimes we must use snow and ice clearing equipment between regularly scheduled passenger trains. This may cause longer waits between trains to allow time for the snow to be cleared.

This map shows rail service limited by heavy snow to Metro's underground stations.

Portions of lines that are above-ground and cannot be served are faded

When snowfall approaches eight inches, it's a different story.

Schools close, businesses and governments institute liberal leave policies or close altogether and the region curtails all but the most basic services. Likewise, Metro's focus shifts when blizzards are predicted and snow accumulates beyond eight inches. When the temperature drops and weather deteriorates, the electrified third rail becomes snowimpacted, above-ground tracks ice over and rail yards become impassable

For safety reasons as well as to preserve our railcars, we will suspend above-ground rail service in a major snowstorm and serve only those stations that are below ground. This allows us to spare more of our railcars from weather-related breakdowns. We can then focus on snow clearing operations on aboveground tracks and store a limited number of trains underground. The map in the center shows the underground stations we can still serve under these conditions.

While we realize some customers will be inconvenienced by this snow-related service change, taking this precaution will help ensure that when the region is ready to get back to "business as usual," Metro will be able to get you where you need to go.

Closing all above-ground stations is a general scenario. In some cases, snowfall may not be equal throughout the region.

What about bus?

Under normal conditions, Metrobus service works in tandem with Metrorail service. That is, many Metrobus routes take customers to Metrorail stations. However, bus service obviously depends on road conditions. During a severe snowstorm, do not assume bus service will be available at the final underground stations of each line.

During a storm, we post Metrobus service changes on our Web site. Normally, it progresses like this:

1. Routes that travel on hills or narrow sidestreets are the first to close.

2. As conditions worsen, we limit service to snow emergency routes, no side streets.

3. If conditions worsen further, we detour or discontinue service on snow emergency routes.

Stay informed. Be prepared.

A major snowstorm is a challenging event, but it always seems to bring out the best in people. At Metro, we pledge to give you our best, providing the finest sevice we can. And that includes timely, accurate information.

There are a variety of ways to stay informed during a major storm. We are constantly updating local news media of Metro service changes. You can also get this information by logging onto the Metro Web site at MetroOpensDoors.com or by calling Metro Customer Service at 202-637-7000. You can even subscribe to eAlerts and we will automatically email you Metrorail service change information that affects you. It's not just for snowstorms; it's a great service any time of the year. To sign up for eAlerts, visit our Web site.

Find out how Metro is serving your area before you leave. And don't let yourself get stranded once you're out. Watch the weather forecast before you leave so you'll have an idea if the conditions are expected to worsen to a point that they could affect Metro service. Dress warmly; you may be outside longer than normal. Be patient, courteous, helpful and safe.