Railroad agency issues safety recommendations about severe weather

Washington — Spurred by 123 rail incidents linked to severe weather over the past three years, the Federal Railroad Administration has issued a safety advisory.

Since January 2021, FRA says the incidents have been partly or completely caused by severe conditions or weather-related events (hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, flooding, mudslides and summer heat). Irregular track alignment from a buckle or sun kink caused 49 of the incidents. Of the 66 train derailments, 40 were because of track alignment issues. Extreme wind velocity, flooding and tornadoes were other causes.

The agency recommends railroads review existing policies, procedures and operating rules related to predicting, monitoring, communicating and operating during severe weather conditions or after extreme weather events.

Additionally, railroads should collaborate on developing best practices for using weather-forecasting technologies, predictive weather models and weather-related actions plans throughout the industry.