Train operations have resumed on both main tracks of BNSF’s Gallup Subdivision, part of our Southern Transcon route, following widespread flooding in New Mexico. One main track returned to service late Monday and the second yesterday afternoon. Trains are now moving through the area at precautionary reduced speeds as recovery efforts continue.

The El Paso Subdivision, south of Albuquerque, remains out of service while crews rebuild flood-damaged track between Sabinal and La Joya. Water was also above the rail overnight in a section south of La Joya, and a time to return the subdivision to service has not yet been determined. To help manage traffic flows during recovery, BNSF has issued an embargo (BNSF001326) for some traffic destined to or originating on the El Paso Subdivision, including interchange traffic at El Paso, Texas, and Rincon, New Mexico.

Another round of rain is forecast across portions of the Southwest beginning Friday and continuing through the weekend, with a Pacific system expected to bring more precipitation late in the weekend. Ahead of the weather, our teams are applying additional layers of rip rap, a type of rock used for railroad ballast, to reinforce affected areas against water erosion. BNSF will continue closely monitoring conditions.

Customers may continue to see delays and nonstandard routings in the Southwest as we work through backlogged traffic on the Gallup Subdivision and complete repairs on the El Paso Subdivision.

For impacted shipment inquiries, please use the “Message Us” feature on the BNSF Customer Portal (registration and login required) or contact BNSF Customer Support at 1-888-428-2673. Additionally, please reach out to your BNSF marketing representative with any questions.

About Embargoes: Embargoes are temporary holds placed on freight to restrict the acceptance and handling of freight. You can search embargoes at the Association of American Railroads (AAR) Embargo Railinc website (enter “BNSF” in the Issuing Road field to view active embargoes).