Heat affects overhead wires, causing MAX delays

The excessive heat has started taking its toll on the overhead wires that keep TriMet MAX lines moving.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- As temperatures neared 100 in Portland Saturday afternoon, TriMet reported many of their MAX lines are or may be experiencing delays.

An overhead wire near PSU Urban Center and SW 5th and Mill caused a disruption mid-afternoon, officials said. However, TriMet said they couldn't confirm this was a heat-related issue.

For the latest, check the TriMet Alerts page.

"TriMet had no reports of sagging wires in the area at the time. In addition, there was no damage to the train or the pantograph, which is the arm-like piece of equipment that connects the train to the overhead wires," TriMet's Tia York said in a statement. "We have crews working to make repairs so that MAX service can be restored."

She did say "high temperatures can cause the overhead wires that power MAX trains to lose tension and sag," but this particular delay remains under investigation.

Portland Streetcar service is suspended due to the heat-related power issues and will remain suspended "under power is reliably restored."

KOIN 6 News will have more information later.