Overview
- Amtrak put daytime temperature‑related speed restrictions in place for July 15–17 that generally run from about 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and has canceled some Acela and Northeast Regional trips.
- SEPTA is reducing speeds on Regional Rail, trolleys and some subways by roughly 5 to 10 mph, which the agency says may cause short delays but will not cancel scheduled trips.
- Officials say the slowdowns reduce stress on rails, overhead catenary wires and electrical gear because high heat can make rails expand or misalign and make wires sag, which can cause power shutdowns or damage.
- The National Weather Service forecast near‑100°F highs and heat indexes above 100, and it warned that surface smoke from Canadian wildfires could lower visibility and worsen air quality on Wednesday and Thursday.
- Riders have been notified and are urged to check Amtrak.com, the Amtrak app or agency alerts for real‑time status updates while agencies continue heightened monitoring once temperatures reach about 88°F.