--- title: "Climate Change Causes So-Cal’s Pacific Surfliner to Close for Repairs" date: "2022-10-02" modified: "2022-10-02" authors: - name: "Nico DeMattia" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/nico-demattia" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/news/climate-change-causes-so-cals-pacific-surfliner-to-close-for-repairs" categories: - "Culture" - "News" tags: - "Trains" --- # Climate Change Causes So-Cal’s Pacific Surfliner to Close for Repairs ![]() The southern portion of California's popular [Amtrak]() Pacific Surfliner is unfortunately in need of some repair. Amtrak indefinitely closed the section from Irvine to San Diego, California on September 30. According to recent reports from the *[Los Angeles Times]()*, the closure is due to coastal erosion on the beach, which was exacerbated after the recent tropical storm Kay rolled through California. Passengers and train enthusiasts love the Pacific Surfliner for its stunning coastal views. However, it's also an important section of transportation for many Californians. "Safety concerns to the right-of-way in San Clemente have made it necessary to suspend train service through the area," Amtrak said in a recent statement. "We understand that closures will result in disruptions and sincerely apologize for any inconveniences it causes our riders. We’ll continue to look for ways to minimize the impact of these closures as this critical work continues." https://twitter.com/TallDarknJewish/status/1575923438748827727 Climate change was a major factor in the erosion of California's coastline. While tropical storm Kay was the straw that broke the erosion-camel's back, [climate change]() has been slowing eroding the coastline over the past few years. Now, it's starting to show real logistic and economic effects, as the closure of one of California's most popular railway sections will have a big impact on passengers. It also speaks to a larger issue. Despite scientists warning us about the negative effects of climate change for decades, it seems that many parts of the U.S.—even more environmentally progressive parts like California—are woefully ill-equipped to handle it. There's currently no timetable for when repairs might be done but Amtrak says the section of track won't open back up until repairs are complete. Until then, one of the ways Amtrak is looking to reduce the impact on passengers is to set up buses and alternative train services for affected areas. "We are working with our partners to set up train service between Oceanside and San Diego, as well as bus connections to/from Irvine and Oceanside." *Have any tips? Send them to nico.demattia@thedrive.com* ## Author Nico is a writer and reviewer from New Jersey who probably thinks he’s a lot funnier than he actually is. His love of cars began when he was just a kid playing Gran Turismo 3, grinding out enough race wins with a Mazda Miata to save up for an in-game RUF 911. That passion for small, lightweight sports cars drove his desire to learn more about the industry, get his hands on as many cars as he could, and bring those experiences to life on the page. He cut his teeth writing about BMWs, Volkswagens, and Audis, mostly, and has owned far too many of each. He’s on his fourth 3 Series sedan, but all of his old, cheap German cars have forced him to learn more about car maintenance than his mechanical capability can handle. Too many late nights have been spent scrambling to get a car running by morning so he could get to work. For some reason, he never seems to learn that old Bimmers probably aren’t the best daily drivers. But he loves more than just old German cars. He’ll gladly drive and discuss anything with four (or even three) wheels. Cars aren’t his only passions, though. Nico is also a big nerd and loves movies, video games, comic books, and cares far too much about the New York Giants. So don’t be surprised if you see football references or dumb, obscure movie quotes in any of his car reviews. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [LinkedIn]()