Crews work to remove debris, coal after train derailment near Sesser, Ill.

SESSER, Ill. (KFVS) - Crews work to remove debris and coal after a train derailment near Sesser on Saturday, February 8.

Railroad traffic resumed in the area around 4 p.m. on Sunday, but there is a 10 miles per hour speed limit being enforced for the trains.

The cleanup could last anywhere from two to three weeks.

According to Franklin County Emergency Management Director Ryan Buckingham, there will be a study done to make sure there were no adverse environmental impacts from the derailment.

He called this a significant event, but said it could have been much worse had the train been carrying something different.

Around 20 to 25 cars were derailed just south of Sesser near Vine Road. The BNSF train was carrying coal at time of the derailment.

Emergency management personnel on site said there was no risk to public safety.

Those who live Sesser may see an increase in commercial vehicle traffic due to clean up contractors entering the area.

The public is asked to avoid the area and reminded that trespassing on railroad property is a federal offense.

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