(Source: Norfolk Southern Service Alert, August 27, 2020)
NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk Southern continues to monitor Hurricane Laura, which made landfall early Thursday morning, bringing heavy rainfall and wind to the Gulf Coast area. The New Orleans Flood Protection Authority has opened the Seabrook and Florida Avenue flood gates, which gives Norfolk Southern access to NS Oliver Yard and the NS Chalmette Branch. Norfolk Southern is in the process of returning rail cars to these previously vacated yards. Shipments on Norfolk Southern destined to NS served New Orleans facilities should expect a delay of an additional 24-48 hours. At this time, the gateways to the western carriers in New Orleans remain closed.
The storm is moving gradually east by northeastward bringing high winds and heavy rainfall across the NS system. NS will continue to watch the progress of the storm and has staged equipment and materials in key areas to begin any necessary recovery activities as soon as it is safe to do so.