By Randy Picking ~ Salina Post

SALINA – Officials believe extreme heat is the likely cause behind part of a Union Pacific coal train to derailing in Saline County.

Sparks from Sunday’s derailment touched off a fire that scorched several acres of wheat stubble about six miles west of Salina. No injuries were reported.

The 106-car train was traveling from Denver to Kentucky. Twenty-seven cars went off the tracks, which were being replaced Monday.

Union Pacific spokesman Mark Davis says extreme heat can cause metal tracks to expand and warp.

Cleanup was expected to be finished by Tuesday.

Davis says six trains pass daily between Denver and Kansas City. The trains were being rerouted through Nebraska until the derailed train can be cleared.