Metrorail trains will be kept to speeds of 45 mph and lower this afternoon, August 8, and trains will be operated manually instead of automatically due to excessive heat conditions.

Starting at 2 p.m. today, trains will be operating in manual mode above ground at no faster than 45 mph as rail operators and track inspectors keep an extra eye on the rails. Excessive heat can cause “kinks” or bending of the steel rails, and the speed restriction and manual–instead of automatic–train control, combined with ongoing track inspections help identify any piece of track that may be affected by the heat.

In other words, expect delays on your way home from work tonight, and to get home a little later than you’re used to. On the plus side, you can now email a link to this post to your boss as a solid reason to leave a little early. Good luck out there.

Photo by krisetya