Here's the latest information in regard to Sunday's train derailment in Lawtell:
US 190 remains closed in both directions from LA 35 to LA 104. Troop I is diverting traffic from US 190 West to LA 104, to LA 103, back to US 190. Eastbound traffic is being diverted from US 190 to LA 35, to LA 358, to LA 357, back to US 190.
Nearly half of the people evacuated from their homes were allowed to return on Tuesday after the vinyl chloride in two of the cars was removed. However, there are still about a hundred other residents who are still not being allowed into their homes. The one-mile radius evacuation area is down to a quarter-mile today. Those residents may be allowed to go home tomorrow.
The evacuation order is still in effect in the following areas:
900 through 1100 blocks of Acadiana Road, 100 through 200 blocks of Desiree Road, and 10000 through 11000 blocks of HWY 190.
Investigators say crews have replaced about 1800 feet of damaged tracks, and trains are moving through the area. Their speed is limited to 10 miles per hour.
Meanwhile, officials with Union Pacific and the Department of Environmental Quality are monitoring a drainage canal near the derailment site where there appears to be chemical contamination. KATC is told that testing shows it's a chemical called dodecanol which is commonly used in detergents and soaps.
Officials say it's not harmful, and there's no evidence that the substance has made it into the drinking water.
Union Pacific and DEQ will be conducting further testing to make sure everyone is safe.
The cause of the derailment remains under investigation.