(Source: Kansas City Southern press release, February 7, 2014)
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The biggest news of the week for KCS’ U.S. network was Winter Storm Nika, which blanketed Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and parts of Arkansas and Oklahoma with several inches of snow, while southern portions of the network experienced some snow, ice and unusually cold temperatures. Meteorologists suggest that more winter weather is on the way.
On February 5, KCS released a Service Status Update to U.S. customers saying there would be some delays as a result of heavy snow, ice and cold temperatures in the Midwest region. The KCS Operations team has already worked through those delays and is back on schedule.
KCS’ ability to remain on schedule is due in large part to the dedication of the Maintenance of Way team whose members have been working around the clock since Tuesday morning, patrolling the track and looking for possible broken rail due to the cold. Fortunately, none has been found. To keep crews and the operation safe, the team has also been cleaning out the switches, clearing snow from walking paths in yards, clearing roads and fighting the wind as snow drifts back over previously cleared areas.
KCS executive vice president and chief operating officer Dave Ebbrecht, said, “I’m always impressed by the preparation, diligence and extra lengths our team goes to during extreme weather disruptions to ensure the safe and efficient recovery of our operation.”
The winter storm also affected corporate headquarters as employees whose responsibilities do not require them to be in the office were asked to work from home with their manager’s approval. In some cases, employees whose responsibilities require they be on property were provided accommodations to ensure they could be here.
All employees are reminded to use good judgment when traveling on the job or to and from work. Stock your vehicle with cold weather apparel, shovels, ice scrapers, etc. to combat the elements and keep you and your passengers safe. Also, the American Red Cross offers Top Ten Cold Weather Safety Tips for when you’re not on the road.