PHILADELPHIA (January 23, 2026) — As a winter storm is forecast to impact the region this weekend, SEPTA is preparing to adjust operations to promote safety and maintain service where possible across the transit system.
Based on current forecasts, there will be significant snow and ice accumulation throughout the day on Sunday. SEPTA is taking proactive steps to ensure safe conditions for customers and employees during the storm, while also preparing for a return to normal service early next week. Customers who have to travel on Sunday should expect significant delays and trip cancellations. As conditions deteriorate, it is possible that some services will be entirely suspended. Whenever possible, SEPTA will give customers two hours notice before shutdowns take effect. Updates will be posted on www.septa.org and on the SEPTA App, and also shared with the news media.
“Our goal is to operate as much service as we safely can, while giving customers clear and timely information so they can make informed travel decisions,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “By taking a proactive approach and suspending services before conditions become unsafe, we also greatly reduce the chances that our buses and trains will get stranded or damaged. We can then get vehicles back to our shops and yards so that crews can get them ready for their return to service after the storm.
Planned preparations and service expectations include:
- L Line (Market-Frankford) and B Line (Broad Street: These lines are SEPTA’s workhorses and are expected to be the most reliable options during severe weather. SEPTA will do everything possible to keep this service operating, including overnight service where conditions allow. Trains are stored overnight in tunnels and maintenance facilities to protect equipment, and crews are assigned to keep stations, entrances, and platforms clear of snow and ice. SEPTA will do everything possible to keep this service operating, including overnight service where conditions allow.
- T lines (City Trolleys): Trolleys will operate on a planned diversion to 40th Street and Market Street beginning Friday night and continuing through at least early Monday morning. The trolley tunnel closure may be extended depending on weather conditions. Shuttle bus service will operate during this period.
- M Line (Norristown High Speed) and D Line (Media/Sharon Hill): Service is expected to operate normally on Sunday. Customers should still anticipate weather-related delays.
- Regional Rail: Service is planned to operate on a Saturday schedule on Saturday, a Sunday schedule on Sunday, and a Saturday schedule on Monday. Weather-related delays or suspensions are possible, as snow, ice, frozen switches, and high winds can impact overhead power lines and rail infrastructure. SEPTA crews will prioritize keeping key corridors open to maintain service where possible and will continue coordinating closely with Amtrak on lines that operate on Amtrak-owned tracks.
- Bus: During snow or ice emergencies, SEPTA will attempt to operate bus service; however, detours, delays, and suspensions are likely as road conditions deteriorate. SEPTA will prioritize service on heavily traveled routes that operate on streets designated for high-priority snow removal.
Customers should expect slower service across all modes as crews work to safely operate and respond to changing conditions. Winter storms present significant challenges for transit operations. Heavy, wet snow and ice can damage infrastructure, while strong winds increase the risk of service disruptions. Road conditions—particularly on hills and narrow streets—can also limit bus operations.
SEPTA has crews positioned throughout the system to treat surfaces and clear snow, and those efforts will continue for as long as conditions require.
Customers are strongly encouraged to check service information before traveling and allow extra time for their trips. SEPTA will provide real-time updates through the following channels:
- Website: septa.org
- X (Twitter): @SEPTA
- Official SEPTA App
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