The first cancellations of Amtrak service have been announced in advance of a winter storm expected to hit a large portion of the nation this weekend.
Earlier today (Jan. 3, 2025), the eastbound Southwest Chief departure from Los Angeles, scheduled for 5:19 p.m. PT, for was cancelled because of the forecast of inclement weather, according to the Amtrak Alerts feed on X.com. Also, the Missouri River Runner page on Facebook indicates that both round trips between Kansas City and St. Louis have been cancelled on Sunday, Jan. 5. No alternate transportation is being provided in either instance.
Amtrak had previously issued an advisory that weather-related cancellations or delays were possible [see “Amtrak warns of potential for cold-weather service issues,” News Wire, Jan. 3, 2025]. The company will reportedly be making more operating decisions on Saturday morning. Watch the Amtrak website, Amtrak Alerts on X.com, and Trains News Wire for more information as it becomes available.
Why not at least operate the Chief to Albuquerque?