PHMSA issues winter weather advisory for US pipeline operators

Feb 6 (Reuters) - The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued a safety advisory to operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipelines, warning of risks linked to extreme winter weather conditions.

PHMSA said heavy snowfall and ice accumulation, rapid winter thaws and flooding, frost heave and ground movement, and ice expansion can pose safety risks to pipeline facilities.

Given current weather conditions in much of the country, PHMSA advised operators to consider measures such as accelerating field patrols, reviewing geohazard plans and winterizing above-ground facilities to mitigate risk.