🚨 BREAKING: Explosion at Fairmont Banff Springs Leaves 30 Dead, 50 Injured

A devastating early-morning explosion has rocked one of Canada’s most iconic hotels—the Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta—leaving 30 people dead and over 50 others injured. The blast occurred at around 5:42 a.m. in the hotel’s eastern wing, jolting guests out of their sleep and sending plumes of smoke high above the Rockies.

Emergency crews responded within minutes, rescuing guests from the crumbling historic structure, which has stood since 1888. First responders confirmed that at least 200 people were evacuated as flames engulfed a section of the property. According to preliminary reports, the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak in the building’s lower maintenance facilities.

“I heard a deep rumble, like thunder underground,” said one survivor. “Then the ceiling cracked, and smoke started pouring in.” Witnesses described scenes of chaos as guests, some in pajamas, scrambled for exits through smoke-filled hallways and shattered glass.

Known as the "Castle in the Rockies," the Fairmont Banff Springs has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and tourists from around the world. Today, that legacy is marred by one of the worst tragedies in the hotel’s history. Alberta’s Premier and Canada’s Prime Minister have both expressed condolences and have pledged full federal support for recovery and investigation.

Authorities have launched a full-scale inquiry, and the site is currently sealed off as investigators comb through the wreckage. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are working with federal safety officials to determine the exact cause of the blast.

As families await answers and communities mourn the loss, the nation watches in shared sorrow. Further updates will be released as officials continue to assess the damage and provide support to survivors and the families of the victims.

Sources:
CBC News
The Globe and Mail
Global News Canada