Vehicle explosion closes US-Canada bridge in Niagara Falls

An explosion involving a vehicle entering the United States on Wednesday caused the closure of the Rainbow Bridge, a border crossing between the United States and Canada, in the Niagara Falls region, according to authorities.

The FBI field office in Buffalo said in a message on Xformerly known as Twitter, the agency cooperated with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in investigating the explosion.

“As the situation is very fluid, that is all we can say at this time,” the post said.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said she was aware of the incident and was closely monitoring the situation, adding that “state agencies are on the ground and ready to assist.”

The New York State Police are working with the FBI to monitor all points of entry into New York, Ms. Hochul said.

Officials could not say whether any injuries were reported from the explosion.

Other border crossings in the region — Peace Bridge, Lewiston-Queenston Bridge and Whirlpool Bridge — were also closed Wednesday afternoon, with no immediate timeline for reopening.

The remaining international border crossings are open and on heightened alert, a spokesperson for the governor’s office said, while airports and rail facilities in the area have increased security. There are also additional explosive sniffer dogs and police patrols, and additional screenings are being conducted at Buffalo Airport.