Pipeline explosion near Prince George

PRINCE GEORGE (News 1130) – RCMP confirm a pipeline explosion is to blame for a large fire that burned 13 kilometres north of Prince George.

RCMP say multiple homes close to the area, which is largely rural, were evacuated but have since been allowed to return home.

Enbridge says the explosion happened after one of its natural gas pipelines suffered a rupture around 5:45 p.m.

The City of Prince George says it activated its Emergency Operations Centre and remains prepared to deliver emergency support if needed.

“The rupture ignited at the site which is in a rural area,” spokesperson Michael Barnes told NEWS 1130 in an email. “Approximately 100 people in the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation in the vicinity have been evacuated as a precaution.”

Images shared online show flames and smoke going up in the sky.

The company says emergency crews are at the scene and have cordoned off the area.

“A cause will be determined following an investigation of the incident,” Barnes said.

So far no injuries have been reported.

Meanwhile, Fortis BC told NEWS 1130 that none of its pipelines had been damaged in the fire but that they will continue to monitor the situation.

Regional Chief at British Columbia Assembly of First Nations Terry Teegee shared video of the flames online. He also said people north of the Lheidli T’enneh reserve have been evacuated.

– With files from the Canadian Press