Propane Leak After Train Derailment Near Cranbrook Resolved

Post by : Mina Rahman

Cleanup efforts are ongoing east of Cranbrook, British Columbia, following a weekend train derailment that resulted in a propane leak and temporary evacuations of several rural properties adjacent to the Kootenay River.

Authorities confirmed that track repairs were finalized early Sunday morning, facilitating the resumption of rail traffic after comprehensive safety assessments. Teams are currently working to remove the derailed freight cars.

The incident occurred roughly 16 kilometers east of Cranbrook, in a secluded railway section. Preliminary evaluations reveal that around 12 cars were derailed, including lumber loads and three propane tankers. While most cars contained safe cargo, some lumber from a compromised car ended up in the Kootenay River.

One of the propane tankers, positioned on solid ground, was confirmed to be leaking. Propane, usually maintained as a pressurized liquid, can turn into a dangerous gas when released. By Sunday, teams had effectively contained the leak and moved the tankers along the railway to prepare for their safe extraction in the upcoming days.

The Regional District of East Kootenay had initiated an evacuation order affecting five properties in proximity to the derailment site and declared a local emergency. Both the evacuation order and emergency status were rescinded on Saturday evening after assessments confirmed public safety.

Jamie Jones, a resident affected by the evacuation and owner of a 400-hectare cattle ranch near Wardner, stated that while feeding her 750 cattle, officials advised her family to evacuate immediately due to the propane leak. They received brief notice to tend to their animals before leaving. While aid was offered for temporary housing and meals, her family opted to remain in their vehicle to keep abreast of the situation and returned home by Saturday night.

Though propane itself is odorless, a distinctive additive provides a rotten-egg smell that helped residents identify the leak even after evacuation. Jones, a ranch resident for over two decades, remarked that such derailments are unusual near her property, although she remains vigilant regarding the safety of her livestock due to the railway's proximity.

Authorities have cautioned residents and motorists on Fenwick Road to stay vigilant as cleanup efforts persist and heavy machinery is still operational in the vicinity. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has sent investigators to establish the derailment's cause.

Crews plan to continue their work over the coming days, concentrating on car removal, securing any remaining materials, and restoring the area fully. Residents can safely return home, but the incident underscores the dangers rail traffic poses to rural communities.