Massive explosion and fire at military base in Canada; several feared dead, probe underway

OTTAWA: Several people are feared dead after a massive explosion occurred at a military base in Canada's Alberta province. The Canadian government has confirmed multiple deaths. Prime Minister Mark Carney said the government was coordinating rescue and relief operations with the Alberta provincial government. The tragedy comes just days before a vote is scheduled to take place in Alberta on whether to initiate official steps to gain independence from Canada.

The explosion occurred on Saturday morning at CFB Wainwright, a military base located around 180 km from Edmonton. The exact number of people killed or injured has not yet been released. Defence Minister David McGuinty said Canada had not witnessed an incident of this nature in its recent history.

The Canadian Armed Forces, along with federal, provincial and local authorities, are jointly coordinating rescue operations. Officials said the government would extend all necessary support to the families of those affected by the tragedy. The exact cause of the explosion remains unknown. The Canadian military and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have launched separate investigations into the incident.