Fire in Jasper: 32,000 hectares in size, extinguishing in the city “going well”

By Abigail Popple, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, RMG

Firefighters in Jasper have estimated the size of the fire at 36,000 hectares after taking an aerial survey of the area.

“This is the largest wildfire in Jasper National Park in over 100 years,” the park’s most recent Facebook post reads.

The fire remains classified as out of control, meaning no perimeter has been secured. While recent fire activity has been low due to the cool, wet weather, conditions will return to a slightly warmer, drier state today. Areas that have not received rain may see increased fire activity over the coming days.

Crews are working to establish containment lines along the fire perimeters closest to the city. They are also working to suppress fires in the Pyramid Bench Area near the city, along with other high priority areas. Bucket dropping is underway in Marmot Basin today. The status of Marmot Basin is currently unknown.

“Firefighting efforts are progressing steadily (in the city) and we expect all remaining fires in the city to be extinguished today.”

Damage assessments have begun on road and bridge infrastructure, and power is being restored to critical infrastructure today. The status of Parks Canada campgrounds has not yet been confirmed.

According to the report, authorities are also working on a plan to help evacuees travel from the Valemount area to Hinton so they can be with their friends and family again.

In addition, authorities are warning travelers not to bypass closed highways.

“We are receiving reports of an increasing number of Jasper National Park closure violations along the Icefields Parkway,” the Facebook post reads. “No services are available as all resources are deployed to respond to the Jasper Wildfire Complex… search and rescue services are not available and there is no roadway rescue available.”

Alberta City Hall

The Alberta government will hold a remote town hall on Monday, July 29 at 6:30 p.m. MDT to provide updates on the wildfire and answer questions from evacuees. To attend, call 1-833-380-0691 or visit https://video.teleforumonline.com/video/streaming.php…. A recording will be made available after the event for those unable to attend.