Case Study: Union Pacific avoids millions in damage and saves eight trains with AccuWeather For Business

AccuWeather Track-Specific Warning Prevented Millions of Dollars in Damage Ahead of EF-4 Tornado

Union Pacific faced an EF-4 tornado crossing its track west of Chapman, Kansas, a severe threat because rails must remain exactly 4 ft 8½ in apart and even an 18‑inch displacement can cause derailments and multi‑million‑dollar losses. To address this, AccuWeather For Business was engaged to provide track‑specific storm warnings to give railroad operators the precise, actionable information they needed.

AccuWeather For Business’ International Severe Weather Center issued a 25‑minute, track‑specific warning that allowed Union Pacific to stop scheduled trains; the advance notice prevented eight trains from derailing and likely saved millions in damage after the tornado later shifted the track 18 inches. This outcome demonstrates the measurable impact of AccuWeather For Business’ track‑specific warning service for railroad operations.

Union Pacific