Flooding Impacting BNSF Operations Across the Midwest - Track Washouts Reported in Multiple Locations

BNSF is currently addressing several disruptions to service and operations across the Midwest following record-breaking flooding across Iowa, South Dakota and Minnesota. Several subdivisions, either partially or in full, remain out of service due to high water levels, flood-related damage to affected tracks, or both.

Last night, a bridge spanning the Big Sioux River collapsed in North Sioux City, South Dakota, approximately 10 miles northwest of Sioux City, Iowa. BNSF operating teams had been monitoring the area through increased track inspections due to the weather conditions and rising flood waters. Operations over the bridge had been suspended as a precaution several hours before the collapse. Traffic scheduled to move through this area is being re-routed to minimize disruption.

BNSF crews are working to clear debris and repair damaged tracks in areas where water levels have receded, however, additional heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected in the area for the next 24-48 hours. Multiple road closures have been reported, which have affected our ability to move restoration materials, train crews and other personnel.

BNSF operating teams are re-routing traffic as much as possible to minimize service disruptions. Customers with shipments scheduled to move through this region should expect delays and extended transit times and may notice nonstandard routings, locations and interchanges when tracing their freight.

If you have questions regarding a shipment(s), please utilize the Message Us  feature on the BNSF Customer Portal (must be registered/logged in to access) or contact BNSF Customer Support at 1-888-428-2673.

As always, we appreciate your business and will continue to work as quickly and safely as possible to repair track and restore normal operations. We will continue to provide customers with further updates.