Fire
Industry News
Earlier this week, 25,000 people (5,000 residents and 20,000 visitors) had to evacuate the historic town of Jasper, Alberta, as wildfires in the area continued escalating. The region has been hit by more than 58,000 lightning strikes within the last week, sparking new blazes after a three-week heat wave. First responders were ordered out of Jasper National Park yesterday and evacuated to the town of Hinton for their own safety. Helicopters have not been able to fly to drop water due to flying conditions being too dangerous for water bombers.
The stunningly beautiful mountain town is famous for hiking, skiing, kayaking, and biking. It is also home to dozens of species such as elk, mountain goats, cougars, lynx, black bears, and grizzly bears.
Nearby Marmot Basin Ski Area, which does not have summer operations, made sure any management and summer staff employees were evacuated. The resort does not have any on-mountain accommodation and is primarily serviced by the town of Jasper. Visitors tend to stay in the historic town and shuttle between hotels and lodges and the ski resort. At this time, it is uncertain what will be left of the ski area when the fire subsides.
Unfortunately, the fire is now causing structural damage after it reached the city of Jasper on Wednesday. Alberta Public Safety Minister, Mike Ellis, said that wind gusts moved the wildfire about 5 kilometers (3 miles) in probably less than 30 minutes toward the town with a wall of fire that he estimated was 100 meters (328 feet) high. A last-minute effort to use controlled burns to direct the fire away from the community was unsuccessful. The speed and intensity of the blaze caused fire crews working to protect key infrastructure to retreat as the fire quickly overwhelmed teams on the ground.
The Mayor of Jasper, Richard Ireland, released a statement on social media on Wednesday:
“The news this evening that the fire has entered our town has rocked us all. The pain and heartache that you feel is shared by each one of us. Please know that my thoughts are with all of you during this incredibly difficult time. To all the responders on the ground in our town–our home–words cannot express the admiration and gratitude we have for your professionalism, your dedication and your unyielding efforts. In the face of such overwhelming adversity, it is imperative that we support and strengthen each other. While the road ahead is daunting and remains uncertain, please remember that you are not alone. Our community is resilient, and united we will find a way to get through this, together. Take care of yourselves and each other tonight and through the challenging days ahead.”
The extent of the damage is unknown at this time as the fire continues to burn. Parts of the town have been destroyed and officials are still waiting to learn the extent of damage. It is thought that 30% to 50% of the structures in the town have been damaged and there is a serious threat to wildlife in the region.
Approximately 1,900 Alberta firefighters have been deployed, assisted by personnel from Alaska and Australia, and are working to save local infrastructure. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said the government has approved a request for federal assistance for Alberta. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries so far, but this wildfire will have a lasting impact on Jasper and its surrounding communities.
This part of Canada has some of the most strikingly beautiful landscapes anywhere and our thoughts are with the town of Jasper, the firefighters, the business owners, and locals.
