Heat Causes Major Delays for Commuters on SEPTA and Amtrak

Heat has triggered major disruptions on SEPTA and Amtrak, with reduced train speeds and extended delays frustrating commuters across the Philadelphia region. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

By Tuesday afternoon, platforms at Suburban Station were packed as riders waited through delays ranging from 15 minutes to over an hour. Many commuters voiced frustration and looked for alternate routes.

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SEPTA activated heat-related safety protocols once temperatures surpassed 90°F. Train speeds were reduced by 5–10 mph to prevent damage to rail infrastructure.

Heat Forces SEPTA and Amtrak to Slow Trains

According to SEPTA’s spokesperson, the extreme heat can warp tracks or cause overhead wires to sag. Slower speeds help avoid critical failures or outages.

Amtrak passengers on the Northeast Corridor were also warned about delays between noon and 8 p.m. Safety measures limited performance, but helped ensure continuity of service.

Theresa Lyons from Virginia hoped for cooler temperatures inside the train. Meanwhile, Carol Sinclair from New York complained of discomfort, saying the heat aggravated her health conditions.

More Inspections Amid Heat to Prevent Breakdowns

To reduce risks, SEPTA deployed additional crews to inspect tracks and wires across the system. These manual checks help detect early signs of damage before they cause bigger issues.

Despite the long waits, some passengers remained calm. “It is what it is. At least the trains are still running,” said one commuter, accepting the conditions as unavoidable during heat waves.

Transit officials recommend allowing extra travel time and staying hydrated. While the heat may continue this week, authorities are working to keep services operational and safe.

Source: 6abc.com

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