Pipeline explodes in Fort Saskatchewan after being hit by track hoe, no injuries reported

FORT SASKATCHEWAN, Alta. – Fire crews are trying to determine what kind of gas is leaking in an industrial area east of Edmonton following what is being called a small pipeline breach and explosion.

Fire Chief James Clark says no one was hurt in the blast that happened just before noon along Highway 15 in Fort Saskatchewan.

Clark says a track hoe was digging and hit a pipe, which triggered a small explosion and fire.

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He says the fire is out and his crews are diverting traffic away from the area as a safety precaution.

Clark says there are lots of pipelines in the area and the city is working with companies to determine what type of gas they are dealing with.

The area is part of Alberta’s so-called Industrial Heartland – Canada’s largest hydrocarbon processing region.

“There is a small leak and we are monitoring the gases coming off of it and keeping everyone far enough back,” Clark said Wednesday.

“There is no danger to the public whatsoever.”