MTA Announces All-Agency Preparations Ahead of Extreme Cold Monday, Dec. 8 and Tuesday, Dec. 9

Temperatures Expected to be in Upper 20s and Low 30s, With Wind Making It Feel Much Colder

View MTA's Winter Preparedness Plan

With extreme cold temperatures forecast to hit the New York metropolitan area on Monday, Dec 8 and Tuesday, Dec. 9, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today advised customers of steps being taken to ensure the safety of customers and continuation of operations.

New York City Transit
NYC Transit Department of Safety will have additional personnel monitoring real-time conditions - ready to respond to weather-related issues as they arise.

NYC Transit Department of Subways will deploy additional staff to key locations to facilitate response to weather-related issues. Crews will also monitor NYCT infrastructure throughout the transit system and implement corrective actions if necessary.

NYC Transit Department of Buses will have all locations with outside parking cycle buses per the cold weather policy to ensure fleet readiness. Additional Depot and Road Operations personnel will be on hand to minimize any service or equipment interruptions that may arise. Bus operators have been instructed to reduce speed, avoid sudden braking, and fully clear snow, ice, and frost from windshields, mirrors, and lights before operating a vehicle.

Customers are encouraged to check the MTA app or mta.info for the latest service information and updates.

Access-A-Ride will operate on a normal schedule. All providers have been reminded to follow the Severe Weather Plan, which includes advising drivers to be vigilant and look for passengers sheltering in doorways and other shelter situations before declaring a No-Show during extreme weather conditions.

Long Island Rail Road
Long Island Rail Road will add personnel to monitor the impact of the extreme cold on tracks and key switching locations and make adjustments/repairs as needed. Station waiting rooms will remain open continuously from their normal opening time on Monday morning until their regular closing time on Tuesday evening.

Metro-North Railroad
Metro-North will conduct cold weather track patrols and increase Power Department and Communication and Signal employee coverage to inspect, maintain, and repair any weather/temperature-related damages or impacts, as needed. Overpasses and platforms with push for heat capabilities will stay open during the overnight hours Monday into Tuesday.

MTA Bridges and Tunnels
While there are currently no bans on tractor trailers on MTA Bridges and Tunnels, weather forecasts and meteorological consults will be considered while planning for operational period activations, operational posture, and deployment of resources. Electronic weather sensors are functional at all facilities, and the B&T Operations Command Center has the ability to actively monitor weather conditions including wind and temperature.

Construction and Development (C&D)
C&D Emergency Management has proactively notified the C&D Safety team and Business Units (BUs) about the forecasted extreme cold weather and have shared key information to crews, including how to recognize signs of cold stress and practical tips for working safely in low temperatures. In addition, the MTA is distributing cold-weather awareness materials and safety tips to all C&D employees to help reinforce personal preparedness during extremely cold conditions.

Ways to Stay Informed
mta.info - The definitive source for real-time arrival information and service change information for each line or route in the MTA system. Customers can find current statuses on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts.

MTA app - Customers who use the comprehensive MTA smartphone app will see real-time train, bus and rail arrival times, and can chat with our customer care team all in one place. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play.

TrainTime app - The MTA's TrainTime app is the essential companion to navigating the commuter rail system. Customers can plan their trip, purchase tickets, check train status, and chat with customer service, all in one app. The app is available in the Apple Store and in Google Play.

Email & Text Alerts - Customers can sign up for email and SMS alerts tailored to their specific commutes and travel times. They can also sign up for MTA newsletters like The Weekender, a weekly newsletter that covers major weekend planned service changes. Customers can sign up here.

511 - Customers who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 511. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at 511.