Amtrak is delayed at least an hour after two fires in North Philadelphia

Two fires near rail lines in North Philadelphia have led to temporary delays in Conrail and Amtrak service before Wednesday’s rush-hour commute.

The Philadelphia Fire Department said firefighters were on the scene combating the two-alarm fires as of Wednesday afternoon. The first fire was located near Second Street and Erie Avenue, followed by another at 1001 Glenwood Ave. The fire department received reports that the latter could be a junkyard fire. Both areas adjacent to the rail lines.

The Second Street and Erie Avenue fire was placed under control, according to the fire department, but crews were still fighting the Glenwood Avenue fire. There were no reported injuries, but a fire department spokesperson said the intense heat required additional companies to provide water and cooling resources amid the blaze.

Public health officials were advising residents to avoid the area or stay inside as the Health Department has dispatched inspectors to assess the air quality. No hazardous substances have been identified in the air, but the advisory was issued out of an abundance of caution.

The Health Department recommended folks to avoid going outdoors as much as possible, avoid excessive physical activity, and to close windows and doors to avoid air pollution.

People sensitive to air hazards, such as children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with respiratory illnesses and heart conditions, should take extra caution, health department officials said.

Amtrak has issued a temporary hold on all trains operating between Philadelphia and New York, with riders experiencing delays, as local officials combat the fire and assess the situation. An estimated delay of at least one hour is anticipated, according to Amtrak.

Conrail’s track was also shut down, according to the Philadelphia Fire Department. Conrail said the fire was resulting in rail operating delays, but it was not on Conrail property.