Photo by Adam Gerard.

Photo by Adam Gerard.

Update:

In a press conference this morning, Metro interim General Manager Jack Requa gave an updated on the derailment this morning that’s causing major delays for Metro riders. Requa said that the derailment, which affected three railcars, was “minor from the standpoint of damage, but [is] a major disruption” for the Metro system.

He said that all three cars affected were either 1,000 or 2,000-series cars and the derailment affected either one or two sets of wheels on each railcar. Requa did not give a timetable as to when the situation might be resolved, but warned passengers that it could affect their evening commute home. We’ll continue to update as more information becomes available.

Original post:

Attention Blue, Orange, and Silver Line riders: Don’t even think about it. No seriously, don’t. If you’re on your way to catch a train on one of these Metro lines, stop and figure something out. (If you happen to be caught in the mess already, well, may the force be with you).

Metro says that a non-passenger train derailed at a switch point outside of the Smithsonian station during morning rush hour. No injuries were reported. As a result, here’s what’s affected:

  • Rail service on the Blue and Orange lines has been suspended between Federal Center SW and McPherson Square stations.
  • Smithsonian and Federal Triangle stations are closed.
  • Lower level platforms at Metro Center and L’Enfant Plaza stations are closed.
  • Silver Line trains will operate between Wiehle-Reston East and East Falls Church only to reduce congestion downtown. Silver Line riders should transfer to Orange Line trains to continue their trip.
  • Riders will experience significant delays on the Blue/Orange/Silver lines and should consider alternate travel options this morning.
  • Yellow Line may provide an alternate for riders traveling from Virginia to Downtown D.C.

Metro will be running free shuttle buses for passengers affected. Here’s where you can catch them:

  • Federal Center – 3rd St & D St SW
  • L’Enfant Plaza – 7th St & D St SW
  • Smithsonian – 12th & Independence Ave SW
  • Federal Triangle – 12th St NW between Pennsylvania & Constitution
  • Metro Center – 11th & G St NW
  • McPherson Square – 14th & I St NW

Meanwhile, the Red Line is sharing a track between Friendship Heights and Medical Center stops. Sounds fun!

As you would expect, Metro riders stuck in this commuting nightmare seem really thrilled about the situation:

Filed Under: metro problems, train derailment,