CN Train Derails in Northwest B.C. as Severe Storm Triggers Flooding, Power Outages

A freight train derailment in northwest British Columbia is adding to the impacts of a powerful storm system that is bringing heavy rain, wet snow and dangerous conditions across the province’s coast.

Canadian National Railway confirmed that a train carrying empty grain cars derailed around 12:45 p.m. near Port Edward, just south of Prince Rupert, after a mudslide hit the tracks.

The company said crew members were able to safely exit the locomotive and were attended to by first responders. No hazardous materials were involved, and officials say there is no immediate danger to the public.

Local officials with the Lax Kw'alaams Band said the derailment occurred near Skeena Drive, not far from the historic North Pacific Cannery site. Nearby residents reported significant muddy runoff in the area and urged people to stay away.

Severe storm batters coastal regions

The derailment comes as much of coastal B.C. is being hit by what meteorologists describe as a rare and highly intense precipitation event.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an orange-level warning for parts of the Central Coast — indicating severe weather that could cause widespread disruption and damage.

Meteorologist Brian Proctor said the region could see precipitation totals typical of a one-in-40-year event, with up to 150 millimetres expected in some coastal communities and as much as 250 millimetres in mountainous areas.

“It’s a very significant amount of precipitation and very impactful,” he said.

Flooding, evacuation alert and power outages

The storm has already triggered an evacuation alert in parts of the Central Coast.

The Central Coast Regional District issued a warning for residents in the Martin Valley area near Bella Bella, advising them to be prepared to leave on short notice due to flooding and potential landslide risks.

Meanwhile, multiple power outages have been reported across the region. In Bella Bella alone, more than 600 customers lost electricity due to a substation issue.

Avalanche risk rising

The heavy rainfall is also increasing avalanche danger across several regions.

Avalanche Canada has rated avalanche risk as high across large parts of Vancouver Island, the central and southern coast, and the Rocky Mountains.

Officials warned that unstable snowpack combined with heavy precipitation could trigger large and destructive avalanches, particularly in the central Columbia region.

Ongoing risks

B.C.’s River Forecast Centre has upgraded streamflow advisories to flood watches for parts of Vancouver Island and the Central Coast, warning that multiple waves of precipitation are expected to continue into midweek.

Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and stay clear of flood-prone or avalanche-prone areas as the storm continues to move through the province.