A wildfire reached the Canadian alpine resort town of Jasper on Wednesday evening, as authorities reported over 170 blazes across the western province of Alberta. Jasper National Park announced on social media that there has been a “significant loss” within the town. The park is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Evacuations and Damage
Thousands of residents were evacuated earlier this week as the wildfire advanced towards the town. Park authorities expressed empathy for the displaced residents and those concerned about the safety of their properties. However, they were unable to provide specific details about the extent of the damage as of Wednesday night.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the severity of the situation and mentioned that Alberta had requested federal assistance. He assured that all necessary resources were being mobilized to combat the fires.
As of Wednesday afternoon, 59 fires were classified as “out of control,” with over 17,500 people under evacuation orders. This summer’s outbreak of wildfires comes after an unprecedented season last year, during which more than 45 million acres burned, impacting air quality in Canada and large parts of the United States.
Impact on Jasper:
Jasper, home to about 4,500 people, was hit by strong wind gusts from the south and southeast, pushing the wildfire into the town. An evacuation order was issued on Monday, urging residents and visitors to leave immediately.
Kimberly Getz, who has family ties to Jasper, expressed her shock and disbelief at the unfolding situation. Her great-grandfather, Donald “Curly” Phillips, played a significant role in developing Jasper as a tourist destination. The potential loss of her favorite places and historical sites is a cause of deep concern.
Lorri Anne Maley-Bell, Getz’s aunt, emphasized the fire’s cultural and emotional impact. She fears the loss of local archives and historical sites, which hold significant value for the community. Jasper National Park has inspired her art, and the thought of its potential destruction is devastating.
Efforts to Combat the Fire:
Katie Ellsworth, an incident commander with Parks Canada, described the wildfire as more extensive and more aggressive than those in recent years, with a particular proximity to the community. By 8:30 p.m. local time, only some first responders could remain in Jasper due to deteriorating air quality. Firefighters and other personnel without self-contained breathing apparatuses were evacuated to a nearby town.
Weather and Firefighting Efforts:
Up to 20 millimeters of rain were forecast in the next 24 hours, which could reduce fire activity. However, earlier attempts at suppression using helicopter bucketing were ineffective, and water bombers could not be deployed due to hazardous conditions.
The wildfire in Jasper is a stark reminder of the growing threat of wildfires in Canada and around the world. As communities brace for more extreme weather events, the importance of preparedness, support, and timely response cannot be overstated. The situation in Jasper continues to evolve, with many hoping for a swift resolution and minimal further damage.
