- Metrolink serves six counties within the Southern California region.
- A train service connecting major Southern California destinations was launched on June 27, 2025.
Coastal Erosion Threatens Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner Rail Line
What happened
Amtrak operates the Pacific Surfliner rail line between Orange County and San Diego. The line is currently under threat from coastal erosion, which officials say could worsen with the predicted intense El Niño winter. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center stated there is a 97% chance of a 'strong' or 'very strong' El Niño over a three-month period ending in December. The line has experienced closures due to heavy waves and landslides in recent years.
From eastbaytimes.com
Why it matters
The rail line runs along the coast, making it vulnerable to rising seas and extreme weather events. The operational viability of the service is challenged by the combination of coastal erosion and the potential impacts of the El Niño cycle. This situation affects the infrastructure supporting the passenger service.
A train service connecting major Southern California destinations was launched on June 27, 2025. Metrolink serves six counties within the Southern California region.
From eastbaytimes.com
Who's involved
- AmtrakOperates the Pacific Surfliner line between Orange County and San Diego.
- Orange CountyOrange County is a jurisdiction through which Amtrak's service passes.
- San DiegoSan Diego is the destination served by the rail line.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
-
Orange County
county in Texas, United States
-
San Diego
seat of San Diego County, California, United States; second-largest city in California
-
Amtrak
American intercity passenger rail operator
Related events
- Rail service disruptions and bus connections are in place following coastal erosion damage to tracks in San Clemente.
- Alaska Airlines operates flights from San Diego International Airport.
- Mission San Juan Capistrano is located in San Juan Capistrano, which is in Orange County, and the Pacific Surfliner connects it to San Diego.