Case Study: Union Pacific achieves timely detection and response to a potential track washout with AccuWeather For Business

Union Pacific Warned of Potential Track Washout

Union Pacific, which averages 17.4 trains per day on its Carrizozo Subdivision, faced the threat of flash flooding and potential track washouts on August 16, 2008. To get location-specific, operations-ready forecasts rather than broad county warnings, Union Pacific received a customized flash-flood warning from AccuWeather For Business (using WeatherData/SmartRAD® products) for MP 845.00–852.00.

AccuWeather For Business meteorologists issued the warning at 7:13 PM MDT forecasting 1–2" already fallen and up to 1.5" more with rates to 1.5"/hr; Union Pacific inspected the line and at 7:45 PM MDT discovered a washout at MP 846.6. Because AccuWeather For Business provided an advanced, targeted alert (while no other service did), Union Pacific was able to detect and respond quickly, reducing safety risk, preventing further equipment damage, and avoiding unnecessary false alarms.

Union Pacific