Metrorail will shut down entirely Wednesday for safety checks, multiple sources report

The Washington DC Metro will be closing on March 16, according to officials who are citing “safety concerns.”

The Office of Personnel Management told Federal News Radio it is following the situation and will provide an update later today.

General manager and CEO of WMATA Paul Wiedefeld held a press conference at 4:30 p.m. to make the official announcement. PaulWiedefeld

The shutdown is prompted by an incident on March 14 at McPherson Square Metro Station. An investigation into a cable fire shut down the orange, blue and silver lines.

"We must take action immediately," Wiedefeld said. "When I say safety is our highest priority, I mean it. I fully recognize the hardship this causes to the region and the community."

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