Largest wildfire in a century continues to rage in Jasper

According to Parks Canada officials, the wildfire ravaging Jasper National Park is the largest fire in the area in more than a century.

“We anticipate that we’ll be fighting wildfires for the next three months,” said Landon Shepherd, deputy incident commander. Recent rains have provided some respite, but there are still active fires.

More than 20,000 residents of Jasper and the surrounding area were evacuated due to the fast-moving flames. Parks Canada reported that 358 of the city’s 1,113 buildings were destroyed. Work is still underway to restore power and assess the damage.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has suggested bus tours for evacuees to view the damage, but conditions remain unsafe due to chemical hazards from burned buildings.

With help arriving from neighbouring provinces and international teams, the British Columbia wildfire situation appears to be improving thanks to recent rainfall.

(With input from agencies.)