Lac-Mégantic derailment facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Lac-Mégantic derailment
View of Lac-Mégantic on the day of the derailment
Details
Time	01:15 EDT (05:15 UTC)
Location	Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, Canada
Coordinates	45°34′40″N 70°53′6″W / 45.57778°N 70.88500°W / 45.57778; -70.88500
Country	Canada
Operator	Montreal, Maine and Atlantic Railway
Type of incident	Derailment
Statistics
Trains	1
Deaths	47 (42 confirmed, 5 presumed)
Damage	30+ building destroyed

The Lac-Mégantic derailment was a very serious train accident. It happened on July 6, 2013, in the town of Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, Canada. A long freight train with 74 cars, carrying crude oil, started moving on its own. It then went off the tracks, causing a huge fire and explosions. Sadly, 47 people lost their lives in this disaster.

This event was one of the worst train accidents in Canadian history. It was the fourth deadliest rail accident ever in Canada. It was also the deadliest train disaster in Canada since the St-Hilaire train disaster in 1864.

Leaders React to the Disaster

After the accident, many important leaders shared their sadness.

Messages from Royalty and Politicians

Queen Elizabeth II, who was Canada's monarch, sent a message. She and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh were very sad about the "tragic events" in Lac-Mégantic. They hoped the town and its people could recover.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper also offered his thoughts and sympathy. He prayed for everyone affected by the tragedy.

Support from the United States

The President of the United States, Barack Obama, also expressed his condolences. He was very sorry for the "devastating loss of life." President Obama offered help from the United States if Canada needed it.

Images for kids

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  The train travelled 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) (about 7 miles) downhill from Nantes to Lac-Mégantic.

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  Area affected by the fires.

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  The provincial flags were flown at half mast on public buildings for 7 days. This showed respect for those affected.