Edmonton: A major explosion late Sunday evening triggered a fire at one of Canada’s major military training bases near the city of Wainwright, around 200 kilometres from Edmonton, the capital of Alberta. At least seven people have reportedly died and more than three dozen have been injured. Strong winds have made it difficult to bring the fire under control.
Prime Minister Mark Carney and the country’s administration have immediately swung into action to manage the emergency. For the first two hours after the incident, no information about the number of deaths or injuries was shared. However, rescue teams from nearby and distant areas have been dispatched to the site to assist the local administration.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, Defence Minister David McGuinty and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith are receiving updates on the incident. However, the area’s remote location and thick smoke from the fire are affecting communication systems.
The premiers of neighbouring provinces, British Columbia and Saskatchewan, David Eby and Scott Moe, respectively, have announced that their provinces will provide all possible assistance to deal with the emergency. Strong winds are making it difficult to control the spreading fire. Other provinces have reportedly announced the deployment of firefighting helicopters and air ambulances equipped with medical services to the affected site.
Prime Minister Mark Carney sent a message to those affected through social media, offering encouragement and saying that the entire country stands with them during this difficult time. He said the government’s priorities were to bring the fire under control and ensure treatment for the injured, adding that he was monitoring the situation closely.
The federal police stationed in Wainwright said that rescue teams were dispatched to the site as soon as the explosion and fire were reported. They are continuing their efforts to carry out rescue operations. A spokesperson said it was still impossible to provide an exact count of the dead and injured, although reports indicated multiple fatalities and numerous injuries.
It is worth noting that the facility is one of the major training bases for Canada’s armed forces, where thousands of military personnel are frequently stationed.
Meanwhile, a vote was held in Alberta on Sunday to gather public opinion following demands by separatists. Voters were asked whether they preferred to remain part of Canada or wanted to establish a separate entity. The results could take up to 48 hours to emerge.
