“We sincerely regret the extended delay customers on the southbound Coast Starlight experienced due to extreme weather issues,” says Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Scot Naparstek. “With more than a foot of heavy snow and numerous trees blocking the track, we made every decision in the best interest of the safety of our customers during the unfortunate sequence of events.”

In a statement from Amtrak: "On February 24, Amtrak Coast Starlight train 11 struck a tree that had fallen onto the tracks. Conditions further deteriorated with numerous track blockages from snow and fallen trees. Due to worsening conditions, area road closures and no viable way to safely transport passengers or crews via alternate transportation, Amtrak Coast Starlight train 11 was terminated at Oakridge, with no alternative transportation provided to Los Angeles."