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Sparwood residents warned of mine blast

The blast at Elkview Operations is expected to be visible from the Sparwood community
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Teck is due to set off a blast at Elkview Operations this afternoon despite unfavourable conditions. File photo

Sparwood residents have been advised that a blast planned at Teck Coal’s Elkview Operations this afternoon will likely be visible from the community.

According to the District of Sparwood, the blast will happen at approximately 4:15 p.m. Wednesday.

The District said this is not a normal scenario and is due to delays to blasting after unfavourable wind conditions.

”The explosives have been in the ground since May 11, 2019 and further postponement of the blast could result in safety issues on site,” said the District in a Facebook post Wednesday.

“Teck identifies that although wind conditions are not currently ideal, the high level of precipitation and moisture in the ground should reduce the dust generated from these patterns.”

The District said Teck is taking the situation very seriously and will continue to undertake all measures within their control to minimize the effects of the operation on Sparwood.

To ask questions or submit feedback on Teck’s operations in the Elk Valley, call 1-855-806-6854, email feedbackteckcoal@teck.com or fill out a feedback form available at various locations in the Elk Valley.