Transit systems warn of train delays

Passengers should be prepared for some delayed trains today, the area's transit systems are warning.

SEPTA says trains on all Regional Rail lines could face delays of up to 15 minutes due to slippery rail conditions.

Trains on a number of lines have been reported to be running late.

However, the Cynwyd Line, which was out of operation for the bulk of the day Thursday due to Amtrak switch problems, resumed service this morning.

PATCO also said some trains may be running behind schedule due to fallen leaves. Westbound trains were seeing 10-minute delays for part of the morning.

The leaves that get crushed under a train leave an oily residue on the track, causing train wheels to slip, according to the transit agency. Friction from the sliding wheels can cause them to roll unevenly, forcing trains to be taken out of service for wheel repairs and replacements.

That can lead to temporary train shortages, prompting delays. Leaf-cleaning to prevent oil accumulation on the tracks can also lead to brief delays, PATCO says.

And New Jersey Transit said the River Line service was operating on a Saturday schedule this morning because of "an ongoing systems communications problem."

Normal service on the light rail line resumed shortly after 1 p.m.