Work is ongoing to assess the damages at the Taber Community Centre after an explosion this week. (Photo: Town of Taber)

By David Opinko

Still no cause for explosion at Taber Community Centre

Dec 19, 2025 | 11:36 AM

The Town of Taber is asking the public to be patient as crews continue to investigate a serious incident.

Late Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 17, an explosion in the area of the small ice arena Zamboni room caused significant damage within the arena and curling rink areas. The explosion also caused a secondary fire.

The facility was evacuated, and all occupants were accounted for.

In an update on Friday, the Town stated that it is still working to confirm the cause of the explosion.

Town officials say they understand that the community is eager for answers, and they will provide those answers as soon as they can.

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“There has been a great deal of speculation circulating about the cause. At this stage, rumours and assumptions are not helpful and can be harmful to the well-being of Town staff and the broader community,” reads an update from the Town of Taber.

“We ask for continued patience while investigations continue. These investigations must be carried out carefully and thoroughly to ensure accurate conclusions, and they cannot be rushed.”

Occupational Health and Safety officers, as well as structural engineers, have completed their preliminary assessments.

They say there are no current safety concerns with the roof or primary structural elements.

“This means that the building is safe enough for engineers, inspectors, and specialists to continue their assessments, but it remains unsafe for public access due to debris, damage and hazardous materials.”

The initial fire investigation has been completed, but a third-party investigation is ongoing. Insurance investigations are underway.

About three-quarters of the ammonia has been safely removed from the Community Centre, and the rest of it is set to be removed by the end of the day on Friday.

Debris removal and cleanup will take time and must occur before detailed assessments can continue.

There is currently no estimated timeline for repairs or reopening.

The Town of Taber is thanking the public, and in particular, users of the Community Centre’s ice facilities, for being patient and understanding.

READ MORE: ‘Substantial damage’ after explosion in Taber’s Community Centre