Latest news with #WesternUS
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Norfolk Southern stock rises after confirming merger talks with Union Pacific
-- Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) stock rose 3.4% after the company confirmed it is in "advanced discussions" with Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP) regarding a potential business combination. Union Pacific shares declined 1% on the news, while peer CSX Corporation (NASDAQ:CSX) gained 3.3%. The disclosure from both companies confirms media reports from last week, including a Wall Street Journal article that mentioned merger talks between the two major U.S. rail operators. In a brief joint statement, the companies said they are engaged in discussions about a possible merger but cautioned that "there can be no assurances as to whether an agreement for a transaction will be reached or as to the terms of any such transaction." Both Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific stated they do not intend to provide additional comments or updates on the matter unless disclosure becomes required or appropriate. A potential combination of these rail giants would likely face significant regulatory scrutiny, as it would consolidate two of the largest freight rail networks in the United States. Norfolk Southern operates primarily in the Eastern U.S., while Union Pacific's network covers the Western states. The railroad industry has seen increased consolidation pressure in recent years as companies seek operational efficiencies and expanded network reach. Any merger would require approval from the Surface Transportation Board, which regulates freight rail. Related articles Norfolk Southern stock rises after confirming merger talks with Union Pacific These Under-the-Radar Stocks Offer Better Risk-Reward Ratio Than Nvidia Apollo economist warns: AI bubble now bigger than 1990s tech mania Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Reuters
6 days ago
- Business
- Reuters
Union Pacific discussing merger with rival Norfolk in mega railroad deal
July 24 (Reuters) - Union Pacific (UNP.N), opens new tab said on Thursday it was in advanced discussions with rival Norfolk Southern (NSC.N), opens new tab for a possible merger. A deal, if it goes through, will create a railroad with a rare coast-to-coast footprint, combining Union Pacific's dominant position in the Western two-thirds of the U.S. with Norfolk's 19,500-mile route predominantly spanning 22 eastern states. There can be no assurances as to whether an agreement for a transaction will be reached or as to its terms, Union Pacific said.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Higher electricity demand boosts railroad coal carloads
According to data from the Association of American Railroads, three commodities have driven Class I railroad outperformance in 2025: intermodal containers, coal, and grains. Year-to-date, intermodal volume is up 5% compared to the same stretch in 2024; coal is up 6%, and grains are also up 6%. Union Pacific is moving the most coal: 2025's week 28 number was up 38% over the same week in 2024, but year-to-date, UP has moved 18% more coal carloads than the same period last year. CPKC's year-to-date intermodal traffic numbers are up 11% over 2024, and Canadian National's year-to-date grain volumes are up 17% compared to 2024. Intermodal traffic, which involves the movement of containerized cargo using multiple modes of transportation without handling the cargo itself, remains a vital segment for Class I railroads. This year, the Western U.S. railroads like Union Pacific and BNSF have seen substantial increases in intermodal volumes. Data shows that Union Pacific's intermodal volumes were up by 9% in 2025 compared to 2024, partly driven by growing consumer goods and e-commerce demand, particularly in the west coast ports that serve as entry points for Asian markets. BNSF also saw a similar uptick (5%), reflecting a strong recovery in retail and manufacturing sectors that heavily rely on intermodal services for supply chain distribution. Eastern railroads, namely CSX and Norfolk Southern, are also tapping into the intermodal growth, though their performance varies. CSX reported a marginal increase in intermodal traffic as it continues to enhance its eastern seaboard network efficiency in response to competition from trucking. Conversely, Norfolk Southern has faced a slight downturn, attributed to competitive pressures and network adjustments to improve service reliability. The grain market for railroads is witnessing robust activity, largely due to an increase in U.S. maize exports. Despite tensions with China leading to reduced shipments, American exporters have successfully diversified their markets in Asia, Latin America, and the Mediterranean, contributing to a 9% increase in seaborne grain shipments year-over-year. This diversification has been crucial, as Chinese tariffs imposed in March 2025 have significantly reduced their share of U.S. grain imports from 26% to 10%. Railroads play a crucial role here, with grain carloads showing a 26% rise, reflecting the increase in domestic grain movement. Kansas City Southern, now operating as part of the Canadian Pacific Kansas City network, and Canadian National are particularly benefiting from this shift, aligning their networks to maximize efficiency and capitalize on higher global demand for U.S. grains. The coal sector is another area where railroads are witnessing significant volumes, albeit the dynamics are different. The U.S. coal market, generally in decline due to environmental policies and shifting energy preferences, is experiencing a temporary surge in 2025. This resurgence is linked to heightened domestic electricity demands and strong export demand from Asia, particularly India and China. For instance, Union Pacific and BNSF have both reported noticeable increases in coal shipments as power plants ramp up production to meet high summer electricity demands. April 2025 saw U.S. power plants receiving 28.5 million short tons of coal, up from 24.4 million the previous year, indicating a robust domestic push despite longer-term trends towards renewable energy. International markets are providing a lifeline to U.S. coal exports, which saw their highest levels in six years. Gross exports reached 10 million short tons by June, primarily driven by competitive pricing and unyielding demand from steel production sectors in Asia. This export surge is benefiting eastern railroads as well, such as CSX and Norfolk Southern, which are seeing increased coal traffic leveraging their networks' proximity to export terminals. The Class Is are navigating a dynamic landscape in 2025. Their ability to adapt to shifting economic conditions, leverage intermodal capabilities, and effectively manage traditional sectors like grain and coal are underpinning their surprising outperformance. The post Higher electricity demand boosts railroad coal carloads appeared first on FreightWaves.
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The Independent
11-07-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Arizona resident dies from the plague less than 24 hours after showing symptoms
A person has died from the plague in Northern Arizona, health officials confirmed Thursday. The victim was rushed to Flagstaff Medical Center, showing severe symptoms, and died the same day. An autopsy revealed Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for plague, was found. No further details about the patient or their identity have been revealed. This case comes amid a recent prairie dog die-off northeast of Flagstaff, a classic red flag for plague activity since these rodents often carry infected fleas. Coconino County officials are investigating an unknown number of prairie dog deaths linked to plague. They are working with a property owner to collect fleas for testing. The plague remains rare in modern America, with the Centers for Disease Control reporting an average of seven human cases annually, the majority of which occur in rural areas of the Western U.S., including northern Arizona and parts of New Mexico and Colorado. Plague occurs in three forms, bubonic, septicemic and pneumonic, depending on whether the infection hits the lymph nodes, bloodstream or lungs. Most US cases are bubonic, typically spread via flea bites from infected rodents. According to the Cleveland Clinic, worldwide plague cases number around 1,000 to 2,000 per year, with the U.S. reporting about seven annually. Symptoms often begin within a week of infection and may include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and weakness. If treated promptly, ideally within 24 hours of symptoms, antibiotics are effective, and bubonic plague has a survival rate exceeding 90 percent. Without treatment, however, mortality rates can skyrocket. Public health officials urge residents to report sick or dead prairie dogs and other rodents, use flea control products on pets, and seek immediate medical care if symptoms like fever or swollen glands develop after possible exposure.
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The Top Resort in the Western U.S. Has Stunning Oceanfront Views and Fireplaces in Every Room—See All Winners
As the popularity of slow travel continues to grow, T+L readers are seeking out resorts that help them connect more deeply to a destination—and to themselves. The Western United States excels in unhurried days and unspoiled landscapes that invite just this kind of travel. This year, readers loved lingering at resorts whose settings stretch from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico to the Alaskan wilderness, but hotels in one Pacific Northwest state reigned supreme. The sun setting at Stephanie Inn. Bryan Daugherty/Stephanie Inn Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. T+L readers' favorite resorts in the Western U.S. prove that laid-back doesn't mean lazy. Several properties on this year's list pride themselves on facilitating outdoor adventures in pristine settings. Idaho's four honorees are well-situated for guests who want to explore the state's varied mountains and waterways. Take Sun Valley Resort (No. 9), a vacation hub that's known as much for its down-to-earth vibes as it is its all-season terrain. Snow bunnies of all skill levels are spoiled for choice between Bald and Dollar mountains; kayakers might spend an afternoon on Sun Valley Lake; and bikers can hit up more than 400 dirt singletrack trails or more than 30 miles of paved paths. Over in McCall, guests of Shore Lodge (No. 15) appreciate the hotel's proximity to both nature and modern conveniences. 'Right in town so you can walk to all the shops, and it's on the lake,' says one WBA voter. The three resorts in Washington State exhibit a similar ability to blend active pursuits with pure R&R. Located in the Snoqualmie Valley, Salish Lodge & Spa (No. 3) impresses with the area's iconic waterfall and hiking trails, as well as its culinary offerings. 'As a lifelong Twin Peaks fan, I've always dreamt of staying at the Salish,' writes one T+L reader. 'The valet and restaurant staff were incredibly helpful and kind. It was a quiet, relaxing trip despite staying during a wedding weekend. I still think about the tomato risotto! We are counting down the days until we can come back.' But the most honorees, including this year's winner, can be found in the state of Oregon, which snagged five spots on the 2025 list. Stephanie Inn: Cannon Beach, Oregon A look into the Ocean Front Carriage House. Gregor Halenda/Stephanie Inn It takes a truly special hotel to make you feel right at home and yet miles away from your ordinary life. But according to T+L readers, this oceanfront escape—which finally tops the category after coming in No. 2 in 2023 and 2022—nails that sense of elevated hospitality. 'Feels like you're at your family's beach house,' shares one voter. 'Highlights are the extremely thoughtful service, a stunning location directly on Cannon Beach, and a nightly happy hour. The restaurant is outstanding, and every room has a fireplace.' Whether visiting for a romantic getaway or a weekend with friends, guests can order a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach or during a day hike along Cape Falcon Trail. Regardless of how you spend your time, readers agree that the experience is nothing short of magnificent. Highlights are the extremely thoughtful service, a stunning location directly on Cannon Beach, and a nightly happy hour. The restaurant is outstanding, and every room has a fireplace. — T+L Reader 1. Stephanie Inn: Cannon Beach, Oregon Reader Score: 95.82 2. Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection: Santa Fe, New Mexico Reader Score: 93.50 3. Salish Lodge & Spa: Snoqualmie, Washington Reader Score: 92.91 4. Tu Tu' Tun Lodge: Gold Beach, Oregon Reader Score: 92.42 5. Brasada Ranch: Bend, Oregon Reader Score: 92.00 6. Sunriver Resort: Sunriver, Oregon Reader Score: 91.00 7. Allison Inn & Spa: Newberg, Oregon Reader Score: 90.83 8. Coeur d'Alene Resort: Coeur D'Alene, Idaho Reader Score: 88.69 9. Sun Valley Lodge: Sun Valley, Idaho Reader Score: 88.63 10. Cedarbrook Lodge: SeaTac, Washington Reader Score: 88.44 11. Suncadia Resort, Destination by Hyatt: Cle Elum, Washington Reader Score: 86.44 12. Tamarack Resort: Tamarack, Idaho Reader Score: 86.13 13. Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge: Denali State Park, Alaska Reader Score: 84.70 14. Alyeska Resort: Girdwood, Alaska Reader Score: 84.35 15. Shore Lodge: McCall, Idaho Reader Score: 83.56
