Train derails near Calgary

CALGARY – Emergency crews are on the scene of a train derailment north of Airdrie, Alta., where they are trying to determine whether a leak of a hazardous chemical has taken place.

Airdrie RCMP Const. Robert Frizzell said Highway 2A between Airdrie and Crossfield, Alta., has been blocked off in both directions as Calgary and Airdrie fire departments probe the scene to find out whether the derailment caused a leak.

The immediate area has been sealed off as hazardous material handling experts from the Calgary and Airdrie fire departments do their damage assessments, Frizzell said.

Officials would consider an evacuation of area residences if a breach has taken place and wind conditions pose a potential threat, he added.

Airdrie is about 25 kilometres north of Calgary.