In 1971, the SP took some damage from the San Fernando earthquake. Not sure if FEMA was around at that time or in what form, but I'm sure there were some disaster-related federal agencies. Did SP get any federal help? How about in 1952, Tehachapi?

These days, I *would* expect UP and BNSF to ask for federal help, especially for repairing a line that is more backup than main line. An alternative that would almost certainly be discussed, as noted above, might be improving the UP line south of Klamath Falls for joint use of UP and BNSF, almost certainly requiring a lot of double track, and dumping the inland stuff. However, the fed money would be available, if available, only for repair of what's there, not major improvements.

Looking for examples in another area: does FEMA help with railroad repairs in the South after hurricanes?

This is just wondering, preliminary to doing any internet searching if I have nothing else to do (which, right now, I do).

And BTW, I think SF5103 (possibly a troll, but possibly not) has asked a valid hypothetical question. There's no way to prove anything, troll or otherwise, in the short or even medium term. Mainly, watch for news about UP and BNSF's responses to the situation.

And for the inevitable hurrrr should have kept the Modoc - just, no.