Union Pacific Keeps Freight Moving Through Severe Weather

By planning ahead and mobilizing teams across the operation, the railroad kept freight moving safely - reinforcing the strength and reliability of its network.

Ahead of the storm, teams held daily calls and networkwide planning sessions to develop a cross-functional plan well ahead of anticipated impact. Early alignment across all teams and crafts created a systemwide buffer helping minimize service disruption and maintain safe, reliable operations.

"Extensive preparation, cross-functional communication and the dedication of field teams kept trains moving and protected customer commitments," said Brandon Filer, general director-Southern Region.

Locomotive sets were pre-positioned across affected areas to support when assets or personnel were restricted by weather conditions. Crews also deployed more than 100 generators to keep critical locations powered until commercial electricity was restored, reducing the potential for delays.

Infrastructure was a key focus with teams placing more than 300 smudge pots in locations without switch heaters to prevent critical infrastructure from freezing. Maintenance crews surged resources to repair broken rails, remove more than 400 fallen trees, and clear multiple downed power lines, accelerating recovery as conditions improved.

"Transportation, Mechanical, Engineering maintenance and Signal crews, Customer Care and Support, Marketing and Sales, Harriman Dispatching Center - these teams enabled rapid operational improvements accelerating network recovery," Filer said.

Learn more about Union Pacific's winter weather planning and recovery resources, explore safety resources for community partners, or connect with a Union Pacific representative to discuss shipping by rail and supply chain solutions.