LIRR delays to last until Wednesday after Sunday's derailment

It could be a long wait for Long Island Rail Road riders eager for normal service.

Officials said yesterday that track repairs after Sunday's Amtrak derailment will cause service disruptions until at least Wednesday, and possibly longer. And if yesterday is any indication, it could remain unpleasant — about a quarter of all scheduled trains were canceled, terminated or diverted because of the accident.

Officials advised commuters to plan for more crowded rush-hour trains and to expect scattered 10-to-20 minute delays, but said they're hopeful full service will be restored sometime Thursday.

Amtrak chief executive Joseph Boardman said yesterday a broken rail may have been involved. Officials guess the accident tore up about 200 railroad ties.