Amtrak trims Minnesota service ahead of brutal cold
Amtrak has preemptively canceled some passenger rail services in Minnesota in anticipation of an incoming blast of brutal winter weather, affecting trips scheduled over the next few days. The move is aimed at avoiding trains being stranded in dangerous conditions and reflects forecasts of extreme cold, ice, and blowing snow across the Upper Midwest. While the carrier’s notice focuses on specific state corridors, the changes will ripple into the Twin Cities by limiting or altering connections for residents traveling to and from Minneapolis–Saint Paul. Ticketed passengers are being offered rebooking options or refunds, and Amtrak is directing riders to its website and alerts system for route‑by‑route updates as conditions evolve. The cancellations come on top of already stressed winter travel networks, with social media posts from Minnesota riders showing confusion and frustration over short‑notice changes but also some support for prioritizing safety.
📌 Key Facts
- Amtrak has canceled selected Minnesota services ahead of an approaching severe winter storm and extreme cold
- The service cuts affect travel plans over the next several days, including connections into and out of the Twin Cities
- Impacted riders are being offered rebooking or refunds and told to monitor Amtrak alerts for evolving schedule changes
📊 Relevant Data
Extreme cold can cause railroad rails to split or crack, creating safety hazards that prompt preventive service cancellations by Amtrak.
What Do Railroads Do to Keep Running in Severe Winter Weather? — Union Pacific
Amtrak canceled multiple trains in the Midwest, including routes affecting Minnesota, in January 2025 due to an arctic blast with subfreezing temperatures.
Amtrak announces cancellations, delays amid extremely cold temps — ABC7 Chicago
In Minnesota, there were 45 motor vehicle/train crashes in 2022, resulting in 1 fatality and 13 injuries, with 44.4% occurring in rural townships.
crashes in Minnesota — Minnesota Legislative Reference Library
Harsh winter weather results in more traffic crashes in Minnesota, particularly in December, January, and February.
crashes in Minnesota — Minnesota Legislative Reference Library
Males are over-represented in overall crash drivers in Minnesota, comprising 59% of crash-involved drivers and 75% of fatal crash drivers, compared to approximately 50% of the population.
crashes in Minnesota — Minnesota Legislative Reference Library
Younger people (ages 15-24) are over-represented in crashes in Minnesota, making up 24% of crash-involved drivers while being 14% of licensed drivers.
crashes in Minnesota — Minnesota Legislative Reference Library
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