Cleanup efforts are ongoing in the vicinity east of Cranbrook, British Columbia, following a train accident that led to a propane spill, prompting the evacuation of some rural properties along the Kootenay River over the weekend. The company spokesperson, Patrick Waldron, provided an update on Sunday, confirming that track repairs were successfully completed early that morning, allowing the rail corridor to reopen after safety checks. Crews are actively working to clear the derailed cars from the scene.
The train derailment took place in a remote area approximately 16 kilometers east of Cranbrook in southern British Columbia, involving around 12 cars, including those transporting wood products and three tanker cars carrying propane. The Regional District of East Kootenay issued an evacuation order for five nearby properties and declared a local emergency, which was later lifted on Saturday evening after authorities determined there was no further risk to the public.
The Ministry of Environment and Parks stated that most of the rail cars involved in the incident contained non-hazardous materials, except for one propane tank car that was leaking on land. Propane, stored in pressurized tanks as a colorless, odorless liquid, can become a highly flammable gas when released, posing significant dangers. CPKC confirmed on Sunday that the leak from the tanker had been controlled, and efforts were underway to reposition the propane tankers near the tracks for unloading in the coming days.
Residents, including Jamie Jones, were evacuated from the area, with Jones sharing her experience of being alerted to the propane leak and swiftly leaving her farm, which houses hundreds of cattle, near the river. Despite temporary accommodations being offered, Jones and her family chose to monitor the situation from their vehicle until it was safe to return. The lingering smell of propane was still noticeable even after the evacuation order was lifted. The transportation safety authorities are investigating the cause of the derailment, with two investigators deployed to the site.
Residents and travelers in the vicinity have been advised by the regional district to exercise caution around railway equipment and vehicles as the cleanup progresses. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with rail transportation and the importance of prompt response and safety measures in mitigating such incidents.