Why the overhead wires powering NJ Transit, Amtrak trains keep breaking

An electric powered NJ Transit train passes construction workers during the ongoing construction of the Raritan River Bridge Replacement Project in South Amboy. The device on the roof, a panograph, collects electric power from the wires over it, called catenary. In hot weather the wires can sag causing problems. Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance M

The summer heat that makes the Jersey Shore a delight made rail commuters physically, and perhaps mentally, broil last week after causing overhead wire problems that stopped trains, stranded and delayed thousands of NJ Transit and Amtrak riders.

With hot weather, thunderstorms and high winds in the forecast, the problems may be continuing. Amtrak issued a warning Thursday for riders to expect heat and weather related delays on the Northeast Corridor, the nation’s busiest rail line. What’s the cause of problems with the wires that power electric locomotives and trains and what’s the fix?

Excessive Heat and Weather Disruptions May Cause Northeast Corridor Delays: pic.twitter.com/9Nj1x9Heou

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