How Is it Determined If Heat Orders Are Necessary?
The need for Heat Restrictions is determined by our host railroads. See below for their statements on heat orders. Statements from CSX and Norfolk Southern: CSX (from CSX) Heat orders are issued when the forecast is for temperatures to be around 90 degrees. The effect is to reduce speeds of freight trains by 10 mph, but not lower than 30 mph, and to reduce the speed of passenger trains by 20 mph, but not lower than 40 mph. The intent is to increase the measure of safety in hot weather that might cause continuous welded rail to bend or kink as a way of relieving pressure. Norfolk Southern (from NS) Norfolk Southern does not issue blanket heat restrictions or heat orders. NS inspects the track with sufficient frequency in hot weather that if problems are detected, NS orders trains to run more slowly through the affected area until the problem is corrected. Why do Norfolk Southern and CSX have different policies? The short answer is that each railroad operates efficient and safe. Railroad
