Amtrak is likely especially concerned with the overhead electric lines on the
Boston to New York route. Winds of up to 60 MPH are being predicted along
that line. Since the trains are all electric powered, a stranded train could be
left with no heat and only emergency lighting, should there be a power failure.
Before the electrification of the line between New Haven and Boston, all trains
were diesel powered, so that even if the train got stalled, the locomotive in
most cases continued to provide heat and lights.
As far as the MBTA is concerned, they are running on a Sunday evening schedule,
which provides for many fewer trains than during the week and all their trains
are diesel powered. However, I am sure they are in an extra "Safety First" mode.
We are coming up on the 55 anniversary (2/28/56) of the wreck of two Boston &
Maine passenger trains at Swampscott MA in a heavy snow storm. The first train
with conventional equipment had stopped to determine the color of the signal, which
was covered in snow, when it was rear-ended by a 4 car train of Budd RDCs. The
lead Budd car was litteraly peeled open like a banana. Thirteen people were killed
and scores of others seriously injured. The MBTA will curtail service, should they
determine that safety is being compromised.
Should the predicted high winds bring down numerous trees, poles, etc., PAR will
also shut down the line, until it can be cleared and patrolled.
