Irvine Oil refinery in Canada at fire

An explosion and fire ripped through an Irvine Oil refinery on Monday in the Canadian province of New Brunswick, local media reported.

It was not known if there were casualties.

The company confirmed on Twitter that a "major incident" occurred at its refinery in St John's, New Brunswick.

"We are actively assessing the situation at this time and will share more information when available," it said.

Images posted on social media networks showed flames and a column of black smoke rising from the refinery.

Rob Beebe, who lives near the refinery, told Radio Canada he felt his house shake, followed by a blast.

(With inputs from agencies.)