High Surf and Erosion Cause Train Delays in Southern California
Recent high surf and erosion have caused significant disruptions to train services between San Diego and Orange County. Over the weekend, water intrusion led to interference with the communications systems that Metrolink and Amtrak trains rely on, resulting in delays. The interference required restricted speeds and flagging south of the San Clemente Pier Station. Additionally, erosion of the gravel ballast beneath the tracks necessitated emergency repairs, including the replacement of several truckloads of ballast. Amtrak had to cancel two Pacific Surfliner trains due to severe washout conditions. The high surf is expected to continue through Thursday, potentially causing further operational impacts. Metrolink and other agencies are monitoring the situation closely and have increased the frequency of track inspections to ensure safety. 
