Major Winter Storm Expected to Impact Much of the BNSF Network

A significant winter storm is moving across the country and strengthening as it tracks east across the Northern and Central Plains Friday into the weekend. The system will be accompanied by a surge of arctic air, bringing frigid temperatures, strong winds, and accumulating snow and ice.

The storm is expected to impact more than two dozen states, affecting most of the BNSF network as it progresses from west to east. Forecasts indicate widespread snow accumulations, with 8-15 inches possible across central Oklahoma, northern Arkansas, southern Missouri and western Kentucky, along with areas of sleet and freezing rain. In locations experiencing ice accumulation, hazardous travel conditions and localized power outages are likely. Wind chills well below zero are expected in northern areas, with freezing temperatures extending into the Southern Plains, including parts of Oklahoma and Texas. Cold conditions will persist through the weekend and into early next week.

Ahead of the storm, BNSF has implemented proactive preparedness measures and positioned resources across the network to support safe operations and an efficient response as conditions evolve. Winter action plans have been activated, and snow-removal resources are positioned throughout the network, including at key intermodal hubs and facilities. Rail switches are protected by more than 5,100 switch heaters across the network, including 150 heaters upgraded since last winter to improve reliability during extreme cold.

To support operations in extreme cold conditions, BNSF is adjusting train length and utilizing distributed power where appropriate to maintain consistent air pressure throughout the train. We also have rapid-response teams available 24/7, including engineering crews prepared to remove snow and inspect track conditions, and mechanical teams ready to address locomotive and railcar issues as they arise. In areas where highway conditions may limit employee access, snow coaches, specially restored passenger rail cars, are available to transport crews and support continued operations safely.

At this time, all BNSF intermodal facilities are fully operational, and all gates are expected to remain open. Drivers operating in and out of intermodal facilities should use RailPASS to receive real-time updates if conditions change.

Customers with shipments scheduled to move through impacted regions should expect delays and extended transit times, and may notice nonstandard routings, locations, and interchanges when tracing their freight. In the event your site must close or modify service due to the storm, or for inquiries regarding shipments, please use the "Message Us" feature on the BNSF Customer Portal (registration and login required) or contact BNSF Customer Support at 1-888-428-2673. Please reach out to your BNSF marketing representative with any questions.

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