Coal Network Update for Thursday, July 2, 2026

Due to the observance of Independence Day, this Network Update is being delivered one day earlier than scheduled. 

Operational Performance
The BNSF network is operating with solid performance heading into the Independence Day holiday weekend. Car velocity improved compared to the prior week but was down modestly month over month. Terminal dwell was consistent with the prior week and slightly higher versus the prior month. Local service compliance held at 90% and was steady with recent performance levels.

Last week, severe wind conditions associated with thunderstorms resulted in two derailments on our Panhandle Subdivision, which runs between Amarillo, Texas, and Wellington, Kansas, and serves as an important connection to the Southern Transcon, BNSF's primary route between Southern California and the Midwest. Both incidents temporarily affected main track operations, but operating teams responded quickly, and all main tracks were restored to service within approximately 48 hours. Traffic flows through the area have since normalized.

Coal Independence Day Operating Plan
Coal trains - both loaded and empty - will continue to operate according to regular schedules. Please click here for more information on the Coal Independence Day Operating Plan.

Service Expectations for the Week Ahead
Active storm activity is expected to continue across portions of the northern Plains and upper Midwest over the holiday weekend, with localized heavy rainfall and isolated flooding possible in some areas. Significant heat will also persist across much of the central U.S. and Desert Southwest through the end of the week, with temperatures in the low to mid 100s and reaching up to 110°F in some locations. BNSF teams are monitoring conditions across the network and will adjust operations as needed to support safe and reliable service.

Seasonal track maintenance activity continues across portions of the network as part of BNSF's annual capital program to support long-term network reliability. This work helps reduce service interruptions and strengthen overall network performance. Our operations and engineering teams are working closely together and adjusting plans as needed to support network fluidity and minimize customer impacts.

As always, we thank you for your business and appreciate the opportunity to serve as your transportation service provider. We welcome your feedback and questions.