Canada Military Base Fire: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday confirmed a “serious incident” at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright in Alberta. He noted that the incident triggered a major fire that spread beyond the military base’s perimeter. Canada’s Defence Minister David McGuinty also confirmed that fatalities and injuries had been reported in the incident but did not disclose the total number of casualties.

In a post on X, Carney wrote, “A serious incident creating a major fire has occurred at CFB Wainwright, in Alberta. Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected. We are working closely with the Government of Alberta and local authorities. Premier Smith and I are in close contact as are our relevant ministers and officials.”

ALSO READ: 'Peaceful Support For Khalistan Is Welcome, Terrorism Won't Be Tolerated': Indian Envoy In Canada Draws Clear Red Line

Fire Spreads Beyond Military Base

Strong winds reportedly fuelled the spread of the flames, prompting an emergency response involving firefighters, medical teams, and local authorities. Videos emerging online show a dusty haze in the area, with the scene appearing slightly orange. The Municipal District of Wainwright said the blaze "spread rapidly due to high winds" and had torn through the fences of the base

Meanwhile, local authorities have urged residents to avoid the area and give emergency vehicles the right of way. A large firefighting operation was launched, with firefighters and medical crews rushing to the scene. Reports also indicated that the local community was being evacuated. While McGuinty said he “cannot recall an event like this in recent memory,” officials have not yet released a complete account of the casualties or explained what triggered the incident.

Unconfirmed Reports Of Explosion

Meanwhile, unverified accounts from local sources, cited by local media outlets, claim that Canadian Forces personnel had been conducting exercises over several days when an artillery projectile reportedly struck an active natural gas well on the bombing range. The reported impact may have triggered a large explosion and subsequent fires. However, these accounts have not been confirmed by the authorities.

As of now, PM Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith are coordinating with their respective officials to manage the situation. Firefighters and medical personnel remain involved in the response as authorities work to contain the blaze and assess the damage.

ALSO READ: Anti-India Hate On The Rise In West: A Look At Incidents Targeting Indians In US, Canada, Australia And Other Nations

You May Also Like To Watch: