NORFOLK, Va., Aug. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As skygazers prepare for the first total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. since 1979, Norfolk Southern (NYSE: NSC) is encouraging viewers to stay away from  railroad tracks.

Norfolk Southern trains run around the clock in all weather and lighting conditions and will continue to operate during the Aug. 21 eclipse. The full solar eclipse will be visible from seven states across  Norfolk Southern's 22-state network, while a partial eclipse will be seen across the railroad's entire system. The full eclipse will last two minutes and 30 seconds. In that time, a freight train traveling 50 mph can cover 2.1 miles and take more than a mile to come to a complete stop.

Walking on or close to railroad tracks is dangerous and illegal. Many rail cars extend up to six feet beyond the rails.

"We want you to remain safe while viewing this historic event. If you are near railroad tracks and distracted by the eclipse, you are putting yourself in serious jeopardy," said Chip Feininger, Norfolk Southern's system safety coordinator.

Those seeking optimal views of the eclipse should not walk on or beside railroad tracks or climb railroad trestles. Cross tracks only at designated rail crossings. In addition, motorists should not attempt to view the eclipse while driving or stopping their car near the tracks for a better view.

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, 977 people nationwide in 2016 were injured or lost their lives after being struck by a train while trespassing on or near railroad tracks.

About Norfolk Southern
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal, automotive, and industrial products.

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SOURCE Norfolk Southern Corporation