Metra Trains To Run On Reduced Schedules Friday Due To Extreme Cold

CHICAGO — With severe cold forecast for the Chicago region, Metra will operate on reduced schedules on all its lines on Friday, Jan. 23, according to a release.

The severe weather schedules for each Metra line have been posted on Metra’s website, metra.com. Customers who plan to travel on Friday are advised to review them. In general, the level of service on most lines will be similar to the service offered on Saturdays or Sundays.

An extreme cold watch has been issued for late Thursday through Friday morning, as wind chills as low as 35 below zero are expected for the Chicago area, according to the National Weather Service. Wind chills that low can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes, the weather service said.

The schedules are designed to provide adequate service for the predicted ridership, Metra said. The schedules will also reduce the number of moves through railroad switch points, thereby minimizing opportunities for service disruptions.

Riders are also advised that travel times will increase due to speed restrictions that can reduce maximum speeds for Metra trains when temperatures drop below zero. Additional schedule changes may be made as conditions dictate and customers should monitor platform announcements and follow service advisories posted on metra.com.

Extra personnel will be deployed throughout the event to address mechanical and track issues and minimize service disruptions.