MTA: 'Proactive' snowstorm prep for LIRR

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said Friday its crews are being deployed “proactively” to keep the Long Island Rail Road functioning during the expected snowstorm, spreading salt, clearing surfaces at stations and platforms and readying equipment needed to de-ice signals, switches and third-rail surfaces.

All planned maintenance work is postponed for the duration of the storm so crews can focus on snow-clearing operations, the MTA said in a statement.

Forecasts call for snowfall of up to 9 inches on Long Island beginning at sunset and continuing into early Saturday.

“Long Island Rail Road crews will be out across the service territory working to keep trains moving with equipment on hand to be able to respond quickly as conditions warrant,” the statement said.

The MTA warns generally on its website that accumulation of more than 8 inches of snow may cause reduced service, particularly on express tracks. More than 12 inches has the potential to suspend service. 

“De-icing trains will be running to keep third rails clear of snow and ice, while crews are strategically positioned throughout the system helping to keep switches clear and operable," the MTA's Friday statement continued. "In addition, switch heaters will be activated to prevent track switches from freezing using natural gas burners and electrical heating elements.”

Waiting rooms at stations will remain open during the storm, the MTA said.

The MTA is advising LIRR riders to monitor service through its TrainTime app, which provides real-time updates on delays and cancellations.

Riders can also check on any potential service issues through the MTA app, as well as on the MTA website or by  dialing 511.

Meanwhile, officials at NICE Bus in Nassau County are advising riders to use the NICE Go Mobile app to check for potential delays, detours and even cancellations during the snowstorm .

That app provides real-time status and downloads are available through the Apple and Google app stores, officials said.

Information is also available on the NICE Bus website via the “Where’s My Bus” feature, found under “Rider Tools.”

There was no immediate word Friday regarding advisories for Suffolk County Transit, though bus riders can check for updates using the Transit app available at or at sctbus.org/alerts.

By John Valenti

john.valenti@newsday.com

John Valenti, a Newsday reporter since 1981, has been honored nationally by the Associated Press, Society of the Silurians and National Headliner Awards for investigative, enterprise and breaking news reporting, as well as column writing. He is the author of “Swee'pea,” about New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. His debut crime novel, “For Nothing Is Hidden,” rooted in 1950s Long Island, was released in October 2025.