Metro News Release

For immediate release: August 12, 2010

Thunderstorm impacting Metro service

Rail, bus, paratransit service affected by morning storm

An early-morning thunderstorm that struck the Washington Metropolitan area has caused temporary closures of some rail stations and halted or slowed Metrobuses and MetroAccess vehicles from passing through areas where trees are blocking roadways and a loss of power has affected traffic signals.

Riders are advised to plan for possible Metrobus and MetroAccess detours and traffic delays, and Metrorail station closures and single-tracking on the rail system.

Shortly before 8 a.m. the Forest Glen and Cleveland Park Metrorail stations were temporarily closed due to a loss of power. High water is also an issue at Cleveland Park Metrorail station. Trains are passing through those stations without stopping. Shuttle buses should be available at those stations by 8:30 a.m. to help customers get around the closures.

Trains are taking turn sharing one track (single-tracking) on the Red Line between Silver Spring and Takoma Metrorail stations due to a tree on the tracks. Stations will reopen and regular service along both Red Line tracks will resume as soon as power is restored, the high water recedes and the downed tree is removed.

It is possible that flash-flooding may impact service at other stations as well, as the storm moves through the region.

Metrobuses and MetroAccess vehicles are likely to be delayed due to road conditions impacted by the storm.

One of the best ways to stay informed about Metrorail service is to sign up to receive an e-alert. Riders can personalize Metro e-alerts by signing up to monitor service on specific lines on specific days of the week and on specific times of the day. People can always unsubscribe or change your e-alert preferences. To sign up, visit http://www.wmata.com/rider_tools/ealerts/.

News release issued at 8:23 am, August 12, 2010.