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First Snow, Now Lightning Causing Commuter Rail Delays

BOSTON (CBS) -- After a winter of snow-related delays, the operator of the commuter rail is warning some riders to expect delays through Monday because of a weekend lightning strike.

A Keolis spokeswoman said a lightning strike on Saturday morning sparked an electrical fire and damaged Amtrak's signaling system at Forest Hills Station. Commuter rail service won't return to normal until that signal system is fixed, Keolis said.

"Currently we do not have an estimate as to when Amtrak will finish repairing the signal system," spokeswoman Leslie Aun said. "Until then, Keolis is working closely with the MBTA to provide the best interim transport solutions for our passengers."

On Sunday and Monday, Keolis said all Providence/Stoughton trains inbound to South Station will skip Ruggles Stations. Anyone who planned on traveling from Ruggles should plan on using the Orangle Line to get to Back Bay or South Station.

Raw Video of Forest Hills Fire:

Additionally, inbound trains on Franklin, Providence and Stoughton lines will depart on time but arrive 20 to 30 minutes late at Back Bay and South Station because of the signal problems. Delays may also occur on the Needham line, Keolis said.

Major delays are not expected on the afternoon commute.

Keolis said staff members in purple vests will help passengers at affected stations, and riders are urged to monitor MBTA alerts.

The commuter rail operator fully restored service on March 30 after nearly two-thirds of trains were canceled or delayed by the snow and cold in February.

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