CN Rail crew evacuated as Ontario wildfire surrounds train

CN Rail employees have been evacuated from Armstrong, Ontario, after a wildfire surrounded a train, as captured in a viral social media video. The footage, filmed from inside the train, shows intense flames encroaching on the rail cars, leading CN Rail to temporarily suspend operations in the area as a precautionary measure.

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CN has temporarily suspended rail operations near Armstrong, ON as a precaution due to wildfire activity in the area. As a safety measure, CN employees in the area and residents of the Town of Armstrong were evacuated overnight.

A CN Rail spokesperson confirmed that all employees in the vicinity were evacuated overnight Monday. The company is maintaining close contact with the Ministry of Natural Resources and local authorities as the situation evolves. "The safety of our employees, the community, and emergency responders remains our top priority," the spokesperson stated.

Armstrong was not the only community affected; evacuation orders were also issued for several First Nations, including Lac La Croix, Collins, Whitesand, and Lac des Mille Lacs. The fires are also threatening other communities like Rainy River District and Gull Bay First Nation. NDP MPP Sol Mamakwa reported that Collins First Nation has been destroyed by the wildfires.

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The safety of our employees, the community, and emergency responders remains our top priority.

Ontario forest fire officials reported 160 active wildland fires across the province, with 128 in the northwest region alone. Of these, 53 were not under control, indicating a significant and ongoing threat. The region has also been under a severe heat warning, with humidex values making it feel as hot as 40 C, exacerbating the wildfire conditions.

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With wildfires closing highways and threatening communities across the north,Ontario forest fire officials said the province is currently responding to 160 active wildland fires.