As far as the track, I can guarantee that no crew operated through long stretches of water substantially over the top of the rail without someone from Maintenance of Way okaying it. Okay, there were probably a few isolated cases where a renegade Engineer charged right in, but most, who wanted to stay employed, did not take it upon themselves.
Things for Maintenance of Way to consider:
- Was the water flowing or just rising?
- What is the condition of the ballast, sub grade, and ties?
- How long has it been under water?
Probably some poor Trackman in a pair of hip-waders was sent to walk the track before a train was okayed to pass.
