Date: Thursday, October 30, 2003

Re:	CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES DISRUPTION OF RAIL MOVES

Dear NASA Member:

As a result of the wildfires burning in Southern California there will be delays to both Eastbound and Westbound MLB traffic. The fires have caused recurring shutdowns of rail traffic since last Sunday the 26th of October resulting in a backlog of train service through the San Bernardino area. A limited amount of train service was able to get through, yet numerous delays still exist. The delays caused by the fires may be in excess of 72 hours.

The Northern Corridor, which services traffic between Long Beach and the East Coast, may be delayed between 48 to 72 hours, while the Southern Corridor, servicing traffic from Long Beach to the Gulf Region could be delayed between 24 and 48 hours. The Southern Corridor is not as greatly effected because it runs a more southerly route than that of the Northern Corridor.

In addition most of the main line operations between Barstow and Los Angeles have been suspended due to fire and heavy smoke covering some of the tracks. Hub Terminal operations at San Bernardino and Barstow have also been suspended for the same reasons. There are no current details as to when these operations will resume to their full capacity.

We will keep you well informed of these situations as more information becomes available. If you require further information or need clarification please contact our office.

Best regards,
The North American Shippers Association

Gregory N. Taylor
Manager