Hurricane season (June 1 through November 30) brings high winds, heavy rains, and dangerous lightning, which can result in flooding, mudslides, fallen trees, and downed power lines along our right-of-way.
We can’t stop the weather’s worst from happening, but we have several operating plans at the ready, depending on the weather’s impact. As with Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy, we will take appropriate steps before, during and after a hurricane. That may include shutting down the railroad before a storm’s arrival. If conditions are severe enough, our only options may be to reduce or suspend train service temporarily.
When the storm is over, we know you want us to return to regular service immediately, and we will do our best to recover quickly. Please keep in mind that sometimes getting back to normal takes time. We may need to repair our tracks, signal and power systems, or train cars due to storm damage. We may also need to reposition employees and equipment before restoring service.
To help you prepare for hurricane season, we recommend:
- Sign up for LIRR email/text alerts.
- Check the MTA website for updates and service status. If severe weather requires us to alter service, we will post the information on our web site.
- Download the free LIRR TrainTime App for real-time train status and schedule information.
- Listen to radio and television news reports. During any storm or emergency, we are in touch with the news media, giving updates on the status of our train service.
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
- Call our Customer Service Center or chat live with customer service agents through the LIRR TrainTime app daily, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. To speak with an agent, call 511 or 718-217-LIRR (718-217-5477) and say “Representative” when the prompts begin. Automated schedule information is available via phone 24/7.