Alternate routes home
Updated: 9/28/2026
Plan ahead for emergency closures
When an emergency impacts rail service to your home station, knowing your alternate routes and travel options can help you get home quickly and safely.
A single station may close for several reasons, some indirectly related to Metro: a fire in a tunnel, a fire near a station, or discovery of a suspicious package are a few examples.
Take rail from your work station to an alternate station, then take a bus to get closer to home.
Metro Rail System Map
Designed to help customers quickly understand routes, stations, transfer points, and service coverage.
Tips and tools
Visit wmata.com/alerts or Rider Tools to learn whether your line or route is impacted. When adjustments are happening, specific information will be provided in a service advisory.
Next bus and next train information
Use Rider Tools to view arrival information or search for arrivals at specific stations and stops.
Metro Pulse mobile app
The Metro Pulse mobile app is an excellent tool for accessing real-time information.
Contact us
Call or text:
202-GO-METRO (202-466-3876)
TTY 202-962-2033
Or, chat with us.
Live Customer Support: Monday - Friday, 7 am - 8 pm; Saturday - Sunday, 8 am - 8 pm.