MBTA Bracing For Frigid Weather, Delays Expected
BOSTON (CBS) – MBTA officials are warning commuters to leave extra time this week as frigid temperatures rolling into New England could cause travel delays.
On Tuesday the MBTA said it is taking several steps to keep its equipment up and running while "arctic-like conditions" are expected this week. With the wind chill, conditions will likely feel like about -33 degrees on Thursday.
Beyond The Forecast: Tracking Winds Of Winter
Subway trains will have their air tanks and air lines flushed out to avoid freezing and will be stored in tunnels overnight. In addition, extra staff will be on hand to watch for potential equipment issues, and buses will be pre-staged along subway lines in case supplemental service is needed, the MBTA said.
The MBTA is focused on the Orange and Red lines as those are the oldest lines. The lines date back decades and the equipment has issues in the extreme cold.
Two trucks are already loaded up with repair equipment to fix any cracked rails. The T said once on site it takes up to half-an-hour to fix a rail.
"Despite our hard work, MBTA services will be adversely affected when key mechanical components and other pieces of equipment are subjected to icy conditions and/or frigid temperatures," the MBTA said.
"It's for these reasons that delays of varying degrees will be unavoidable. Customers are strongly advised to plan for extra travel time and to check mbta.com before starting their commutes."
Service information can be found on the winter portion of the MBTA's website.
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