Seven rescued after MBTA trolley gets stuck in floodwaters in Massachusetts

On a frigid morning in Massachusetts, an unexpected deluge caused significant disruptions in public transport, notably affecting the MBTA services. Specifically, around 7:30 a.m. on February 18, 2025, the Mattapan MBTA trolley got stranded at Milton Station due to rapid flooding from the Neponset River. The rising water, which reached up to two feet, engulfed the train, forcing passengers and the train operator to remain inside as the trolley lost power, rendering it immobile. A rescue operation was swiftly initiated by local firefighters, who utilized ice rescue suits and an inflatable raft to safely evacuate all individuals onboard, including six passengers. Fire Chief Chris Madden emphasized the safety protocols and quick response essential in such extreme conditions, expressing relief that everyone was unharmed despite the circumstances. The passengers faced waist-high water in certain areas and were evacuated in pairs using life vests, which helped reassure them of their safety during the ordeal. The entire rescue took approximately 40 minutes, illustrating the challenging and dynamic nature of rescue operations under adverse weather conditions. While the rescue captured the attention of the public, it was part of a broader scenario in which severe winter weather led to numerous cancellations and delays across the region's transportation networks. Commuter Rail passengers faced a myriad of disruptions due to equipment shortages and icy conditions affecting train operations. Reports indicated that several lines, including the Haverhill, Newburyport, and Fitchburg lines, experienced delays, significantly impacting commuters like Bill O'Brien, who had vital medical appointments contingent on timely transportation. O'Brien noted that such delays pose serious challenges for individuals who rely on these services for essential travel. Keolis, the operator for the Commuter Rail, highlighted the severe weather and related equipment issues as primary contributors to the transportation woes faced by passengers. The incident at Milton, while alarming, is merely a facet of the ongoing challenges posed by the harsh winter weather in Massachusetts, as commuters aspire for a return to normalcy in their daily commuting routine and await improvements in service reliability amidst adverse conditions.