Urged to avoid attack area

Photo: The Canadian Press

People flee from the scene after a white van jumped the sidewalk in Barcelona, crashing into a crowd.

Canadians in Spain are being urged to avoid the Las Ramblas area in Barcelona, where a van has plowed through a crowd in the popular tourist area near the city centre.

Global Affairs Canada is also urging Canadians in Spain to let their "loved ones know you are safe."

"Canada condemns today’s terror attack in Barcelona – our hearts, sympathies & support are with the victims and their families,' tweeted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Catalonia's interior minister Joaquim Forn has confirmed 13 people were killed and at least 50 injured when a rented white van drove at high speeds into the crowds on the street.

Global Affairs says Canadians in the Spanish city should monitor local media and follow the directions of local authorities.

There is no word yet on whether any Canadians are among the dead or injured.

Global Affairs officials said any Canadians in Barcelona with questions should direct them to consular staff or to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

Las Ramblas is a tree-lined pedestrian mall lined with streetside cafes and souvenir kiosks. There are two narrow service roads running along either side of the pedestrian mall.