Metro News Release

For immediate release: July 1, 2012

Metro advises customers to allow additional travel time on Monday morning

Metro is advising customers to allow additional travel time on Monday morning due to the ongoing effects of damage caused by Friday's extreme weather.

Metrobus:  As of Sunday evening, approximately two dozen Metrobus routes are operating on detour routes due to downed power lines, downed trees or other storm damage. Delays could be widespread during the Monday morning commute, as a result of congestion from dark traffic signals and additional vehicles on the road.  Metrobus customers can receive email and text message alerts for delays and detours by signing up for MetroAlerts.

Metrorail:  Metro currently has sufficient third-rail power to support train operations on all Metrorail lines. However, there are some locations where, due to commercial power outages, Metro is "backfeeding" (moving) power to other parts of the system via the third rail. In the event of a further loss of commercial power, it may be necessary for Metro to impose train speed restrictions in order to maintain adequate power. For this reason, customers are encouraged to allow additional travel time Monday morning, and to sign up for MetroAlerts to receive email or text message notification of delays.

Stations:  All 86 Metrorail stations are expected to open normally tomorrow. As of Sunday evening, there are several stations that are operating on backup power systems and emergency lighting. Customers at these stations may notice offline station equipment, including escalators, platform displays, lighting and PA systems.

Customers are encouraged to check wmata.com/alerts for the latest service information before traveling.

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News release issued at 8:00 pm, July 1, 2012.