At least 25,000 people have been forced to evacuate due to wildfires in Jasper National Park in Canada, officials said.
The town of Jasper and Jasper National Park in Alberta have closed and are being evacuated due to active wildfires, the park said Tuesday.
A reception centre is readied for wildfire evacuees forced from Jasper National Park in Calgary, Alta., July 23, 2024.
Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press via AP
The evacuation impacts 15,000 people who were visiting and staying in the park when the order was issued, as well as about 10,000 people in the town of Jasper, including seasonal workers, according to the Alberta Emergency Management Agency.
“The Town of Jasper and Parks Canada’s priority is the safety of our staff, residents and visitors,” Jasper National Park said in a statement on Tuesday. “We acknowledge this is a stressful time and appreciate patience as this is an evolving and complex situation.”
Thousands of residents and visitors already evacuated overnight, as multiple wildfires burn in Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, the park said.
This photo provided by Carolyn Campbell shows cars clogging the highway as people evacuate because of wildfires early, July 23, 2024, in Jasper, Alberta.
Carolyn Campbell/The Canadian Press via AP
Parks Canada is mobilizing additional firefighting resources and aircraft to assist in battling the blazes, according to Jasper National Park.
“Our priority is to protect the town and community of Jasper, limiting wildfire growth towards town, Highway 16 and critical infrastructure,” Jasper National Park said.
Reservations through Aug. 6 in Jasper National Park have been canceled. A reopening date has not yet been announced.
Alberta is experiencing “extreme wildfire conditions,” with more than 170 wildfires burning across the province, according to the government of Alberta.
Wildfires in Canada’s Jasper National Park have prompted evacuation orders for 25,000 people as authorities work to contain the blaze and ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the area.
The wildfires, which were sparked by lightning strikes in the park, have been burning for several days and have grown significantly in size, threatening nearby communities and infrastructure. The evacuation orders were issued as a precautionary measure to protect the public from the rapidly spreading flames.
Jasper National Park, located in the province of Alberta, is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities. However, the wildfires have forced the closure of several popular hiking trails and campgrounds, disrupting travel plans for many visitors.
Authorities are working tirelessly to contain the wildfires and prevent them from spreading further. Firefighters are using helicopters and water bombers to drop water on the flames, while ground crews are working to create firebreaks and control the spread of the fire. Despite their efforts, the unpredictable nature of wildfires makes it difficult to predict when the blaze will be fully contained.
The evacuation orders have forced thousands of residents and visitors to leave their homes and seek shelter in nearby communities. Emergency services are providing support to those affected by the wildfires, offering assistance with transportation, accommodation, and other essential needs.
The wildfires in Jasper National Park serve as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of wildfires in Canada due to climate change and other factors. Warmer temperatures, drier conditions, and lightning strikes all contribute to the risk of wildfires in forested areas like Jasper National Park.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is important for residents and visitors in the area to stay informed about the latest updates and follow the guidance of authorities. By working together and taking necessary precautions, we can help protect our communities and natural landscapes from the devastating effects of wildfires.
