Ontario wildfires halt trains carrying combustible materials and force evacuations

A trio of trains loaded with possibly dangerous materials have been stopped due to wildfires in northwestern Ontario that have led to evacuations.

The OPP says three trains carrying combustible and flammable materials were stopped due to wildfire activity and have been staged in Allanwater Subdivision near Collins, some 460 kilometres north of Thunder Bay.

“While there is no immediate threat to public safety, emergency responders, emergency management partners, railway officials and other responding agencies are working together to assess conditions and support ongoing public safety measures,” police said on Tuesday evening.

Over 125 wildfires forced evacuation orders for multiple communities, including the Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and Collins First Nations.

Ontario forest fire officials said on Monday the province was dealing with 160 active wildland fires, with 128 active fires in the northwest region. Over 50 of the wires were considered not under control, eight fires were being held, four fires were under control and 63 fires were being observed.

Photos and videos posted on social media appear to show large grey and black plumes of smoke and towering flames from wildfires.

Environment Canada had much of northern Ontario under a severe heat warning on Tuesday, with the humidex making it feel as hot as 40 C.

Officials at Wabakimi Provincial Park said it will be closed until July 20 due to the extreme forest fire conditions in and around the park and the evacuation orders for surrounding communities.

– With files from The Canadian Press