Inferno Engulfs Iconic Jasper: Canadian Rockies Town Battles Devastating Wildfire
A fast-moving wildfire has devastated Jasper, an old mountain town in the Canadian Rockies, with the mayor describing the damage as “beyond description and comprehension.” Over 25,000 people were forced to flee earlier this week.
The fire entered the southern edge of the town on Wednesday evening, and due to its speed and intensity, fire crews were ordered to retreat to protect key infrastructure. Video shared on social media showed parts of the town incinerated, with one person lamenting, “That’s Mom and Dad’s house.”
Alberta’s premier, Danielle Smith, mourned the destruction of the national park, calling it a “nightmare for any community.” Jasper’s mayor, Richard Ireland, expressed profound sorrow for the loss and extended his sympathies to the affected residents.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced federal assistance, deploying military resources and coordinating firefighting and evacuation efforts. Parks Canada reported that the fire’s intense behavior, with flames reaching 300 to 400 feet and spreading at 15 meters per minute, quickly overwhelmed ground teams. Helicopters and water bombers were unable to mitigate the fire due to poor flying conditions.
First responders relocated to Hinton, 50 miles northeast, while structural firefighters remained in Jasper. The withdrawal meant fire guards could not be completed. Thousands of visitors and residents evacuated Jasper National Park as fires approached from the north and south.
Despite the relocation, there was structural loss in Jasper, although the extent was unclear. The fire’s intensity continued to hinder containment efforts. Jasper’s 5,000 residents and 20,000 park visitors evacuated on short notice.
Alberta has been experiencing scorching temperatures, with about 177 wildfires burning across the province, displacing another 7,500 people. Jasper resident Leanne Maeva Joyeuse expressed relief after reaching an evacuation center but awaited the chance to return home.
Heavy rain is forecasted, potentially taming the blaze and allowing fire crews to regroup. Premier Smith expressed optimism that Jasper would rebuild stronger, ensuring future generations could continue to experience its magic.
Re-reported from the article originally published in THE GUARDIAN.
