Check trimet.org/alerts, sign up for service information and be mindful of changing weather conditions
Winter is an unpredictable time of the year.
TriMet is prepared for the possibility of winter weather that may affect local travel in the months ahead. Snow and ice can fall in our region from November to April.
How does TriMet prepare for winter? We have specialized tools, equipment and supplies to help us handle conditions that can make travel difficult.
We also provide tools on our website to help you stay ahead of winter weather. Always check trimet.org/alerts before you ride. You can sign up to receive service information directly to your phone or inbox at trimet.org/email.
Stockpiling for winter
TriMet has supplies to help us tackle snow and ice, including five sets of tire chains for every bus in our fleet and more than 40 tons of deicer. About 95% of our bus fleet is outfitted with drop-down chains that can aid with traction during changing weather conditions.
As we’ve introduced our newest MAX trains — the Type 6 — into service this year, we’ve also increased the number of trains that have heated ice cutters. These devices can shave about a 1/32-inch of ice off the overhead wires that power MAX. This can help keep MAX running when temperatures are below freezing. Heavier icing conditions may still require us to suspend MAX service for safety.
We now have about 35 light rail vehicles with ice cutters, up from 25 last winter. That number will continue to rise as more Type 6 trains enter service.
TriMet also has a few dedicated sanding trucks, as well as two ice tractors that can remove packed snow, ice and debris from the MAX tracks. These vehicles can help keep key facilities and areas clear, although they can’t cover our entire system.
We work with the Oregon Department of Transportation and our local partners, as well as federal partners like the National Weather Service, during extreme weather events. Partners like the Portland Bureau of Transportation and other city and county roads departments provide vital support in plowing and sanding bus routes.
Tips for riders
TriMet is an around-the-clock operation, and our work doesn’t stop for a snow day. Regardless of the weather, we’ll be working hard this winter to get you where you need to go.
Above all else, however, our core value at TriMet is safety. We keep a close eye on weather conditions, and we will adjust or suspend service when conditions prevent us from operating safely. Whenever we make these service adjustments, we’ll post and send out service alerts, so you can know what’s going on.
For riders, we recommend:
- Following the forecast. We work closely with our partners at the National Weather Service to track weather systems and plan for possible impacts to our service. You can do the same by visiting weather.gov/pqr, or check out our local news forecasters.
- Planning ahead. When buses are chained, they are limited to 25 mph. Our transit vehicles have to contend with traffic, too, which may cause further delays. Plan for trips to take longer, give yourself extra time and prepare accordingly.
- Dressing for the weather. A sturdy jacket, hat, gloves, scarf and boots all go a long way toward keeping warm and avoiding exposure when it’s very cold out. Consider also packing handwarmers, ice cleats, a flashlight or strobe, and anything else you might need to stay safe and comfortable.
- Taking it slow. The daylight hours are growing short, and rain, snow and fog can all affect visibility. Stay alert and use caution around transit vehicles and at stops, stations and transit centers. Walkways, stairs and platforms may be slippery, even when there is no snow on the ground. Be careful getting to and from your transit stop.
- Signing up for service alerts. You can always find the latest TriMet service information at trimet.org/alerts. Better yet, you can sign up at trimet.org/email to receive alerts specifically for your line. Always check for service alerts before you travel.
We don’t know what this winter will bring — but by following these tips, you can be sure to stay on top of winter weather.
Find more information at trimet.org/winterweather.