A CPKC train derailed near Kamloops Saturday night, spilling fuel into Kamloops Lake. Crews contained the leak; no injuries were reported.
Fuel Cars Derail Near Kamloops, No Injuries Reported
Freight Train Incident Near Savona
A CPKC freight train derailed just before 7 p.m. PDT on Saturday, November 1, about 20 kilometres west of Kamloops, near the community of Savona on Kamloops Lake. The incident involved one locomotive and 17 rail cars, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Cargo and Initial Impact
Among the derailed cars, four were loaded with fuel, five carried gypsum, and one contained pulp products. The remaining seven were empty, including three that had last transported gasoline. A CPKC statement confirmed that two of the loaded fuel cars leaked product following the derailment.
Containment and Cleanup Efforts
Containment booms were quickly deployed on Kamloops Lake to control the spill. Environmental and operations crews from CPKC are on site conducting cleanup and assessment, working in coordination with the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks to minimize environmental impact.
Monitoring by Regional Authorities
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) and Interior Health are monitoring the situation closely. As of 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 2, officials reported no risk to the Savona water system. Any updates will be shared through the Voyent Alert emergency system and other regional communication channels.
Protection of Water Systems
In addition to the Savona system, several non-TNRD domestic water systems along Kamloops Lake — including one in Tobiano — are being assessed for possible effects. Interior Health is supporting all local water purveyors in testing and monitoring water quality. Residents with questions are encouraged to contact their specific water provider.
Provincial Coordination and Oversight
The province’s Environmental Emergency Branch was notified immediately and led a coordination call on Sunday morning. Representatives from CPKC, TNRD, Interior Health, multiple provincial and federal ministries, the First Nations Health Authority, and Skeetchestn First Nation participated in the briefing.
Investigation Underway
No injuries have been reported, and CPKC crews continue recovery operations at the site. The cause of the derailment has not yet been determined and remains under investigation by CPKC and federal transport regulators.
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