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Extreme Weather Travel Guide

intersection in Davis Square with MBTA in heavy rain

Regardless of the season, it’s our top priority to ensure your safety when you ride the T. When extreme weather does hit, take a look at the guides below to help you stay safe and informed.

Stay Informed

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Call us at 617-222-3200

What to Expect During Severe Rain and Wind

large puddle in Davis Square with rain and MBTA bus in background

Flooding, heavy winds, and lightning are the main causes for delays and disruptions to MBTA service during major storms.

On rare occasions, the governor may issue a state of emergency or travel ban, which can impact the level of MBTA service available. If this happens, we will update our website and X (Formerly Twitter) with related service changes.

Impacts to Service

We’re working to minimize service disruptions due to rising sea levels and stronger, more frequent major storms by identifying vulnerabilities and updating at-risk infrastructure.

Learn more about our climate change efforts


What to Expect During Extreme Heat

Pedestrians cross the newly repainted crosswalk at Coolidge Corner (August 2019)

On summer’s hottest days, we may operate trains at reduced speeds in some areas to compensate for heat-related stress on the tracks, which could result in slightly longer travel times.

We’ll also have crews stationed around the system to provide assistance.

Learn more about keeping cool in the heat


What to Expect During Slippery Rail Conditions

A Commuter Rail train stopped at the Providence-bound platform.

As leaves fall onto Commuter Rail tracks in October and November, they collect debris, pick up moisture, and then are crushed by train wheels. This creates a condition called slippery rail, or a slick film of leaves on the tracks.

For safety on slippery rails, trains need to begin braking sooner and take more time to pick up speed. This can cause delays.

Slippery rail conditions reach their peak between Halloween and early November. To stay safe, riders should use extra caution while on our platforms and boarding trains.

Sign Up for Service Alerts

On the platform in Park Street Station, a woman holds her smartphone with a Green Line train in the background.

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Plan a trip

When there are service changes, the Trip Planner will show related disruptions.

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Sign Up for Service Alerts

On the platform in Park Street Station, a woman holds her smartphone with a Green Line train in the background.

Get service alerts via text or email.

Plan a trip

When there are service changes, the Trip Planner will show related disruptions.

There was a problem performing your search; please try again in a few minutes.