Service returns to normal on N and Q lines after broken subway rail between Queens, Manhattan

LONG ISLAND CITY, Queens (WABC) -- A pair of broken rails caused a big disruption in subway service between Queens and Manhattan at the height of the Tuesday evening rush.

Broken rails were found during a routine maintenance check. It's not clear if the defect was caused by the weather.

N and Q trains are running normally again in both directions between Manhattan and Queens, but southbound R service changes remain in effect.

Shuttle trains are running between Queensboro Plaza and stops in Astoria.

Here are travel alternatives:

To Astoria: Customers are advised to take the 7 train and transfer to a shuttle train service at Queensboro Plaza.

To points south of Lexington Avenue-59th Street or 5 Avenue: Customers should walk to 5th Avenue-53rd Street and take the E to 42nd Street, then transfer to the N or Q, or take the M and transfer to the N or Q at 34 Street-Herald Square.

Riders are urged to expect delays and allow additional travel time.