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Thermometer showing 100+ degree weather

How to Beat the Heat on NJ TRANSIT

Summer is here, and so is the extreme heat. While we all enjoy sunny days and warm nights, you should also be aware of the challenges high temperatures can pose for NJ TRANSIT operations, as well as on the health and safety of our customers and employees.

Here are some of the ways that extreme heat affects our services and what we are doing to help.

Extreme Heat Can Slow Down and Disrupt Operations

  • Extreme heat can cause catenary lines (the overhead wires that power our electric trains) to sag, reducing the clearance between the wires and the trains. This can lead to power outages, delays, or even damage to the equipment.
  • Extreme heat can also cause rail tracks to expand and buckle, creating a safety hazard for trains. To prevent this, NJ TRANSIT monitors track temperatures and imposes speed restrictions when necessary.
  • Extreme heat can affect the performance of air conditioning systems on trains, buses, and light rail vehicles making them less effective or even causing them to malfunction. NJ TRANSIT inspects and maintains A/C systems regularly, but sometimes they may not be able to keep up with high demand.
  • Extreme heat can also damage roadways and cause them to melt or crack, especially asphalt surfaces. This can affect bus routes and create traffic congestion.

Things You Should Do When Traveling in Extreme Heat

  • Avoid direct exposure to the sun as much as possible. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
  • Check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly. Avoid traveling during peak hours if possible.
  • Check NJ TRANSIT’s website, app, or social media for service updates, alerts, and advisories before you travel.
  • Be prepared for delays or disruptions due to extreme heat. Know your Alternatives, Back-ups, and Contingencies in case your trip is canceled or rerouted.
  • If you feel unwell or experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.

Help NJ TRANSIT Offers

  • Provides shade, air conditioning and water at major stations and terminals.
  • Has customer service staff available at stations and terminals to assist you if you have any questions or concerns.
  • Coordinates with local emergency management agencies and utility companies to respond quickly to any incidents or disruptions caused by extreme heat.

Be Prepared for Delays and Disruptions

  • Despite our best efforts, extreme heat can still cause delays or disruptions to our service. We ask for your patience and understanding as we work to restore normal service as soon as possible.
  • Stay informed of any service changes or advisories through our website, app, social media, email alerts, text messages, station announcements, and onboard announcements.
  • Do you know your ABC’s? We encourage you to always know your Alternatives, Back-ups, and Contingencies in the event of a service disruption. To learn more about ABC’s, click HERE.

Thank you for choosing NJ TRANSIT, and stay cool!