Quick Answer:Both Central Pacific and Union Pacific workers faced harsh weather conditions as a significant obstacle during the construction of the transcontinental railroad.
Full Explanation:During the construction of the transcontinental railroad, both the Central Pacific and Union Pacific workers encountered various challenges. However, one obstacle that affected both groups of workers was the harsh weather conditions they had to endure.
The Central Pacific workers faced extreme weather conditions while constructing the railroad across the Sierra Nevada mountain range. They had to contend with heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and treacherous terrain, which made the construction work immensely difficult and dangerous. The severe winter weather often caused delays and hindered progress.
Similarly, the Union Pacific workers also faced challenging weather conditions as they built the railroad through the Great Plains. They had to endure scorching heat during the summer months, fierce storms, and harsh winds. These adverse weather conditions added to the hardships and risks faced by the workers, slowing down their progress and increasing the difficulty of their tasks.
The harsh weather not only posed physical challenges but also affected the workers' health and well-being. Exposure to extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, could lead to illnesses, injuries, and even fatalities.
In summary, both the Central Pacific and Union Pacific workers had to overcome the obstacle of harsh weather conditions while constructing the transcontinental railroad. These adverse weather conditions made the construction work more arduous, dangerous, and contributed to delays in completing the project.