Evacuation Order Issued as Wildfire Threatens Jasper National Park

Residents, visitors, and campers of Jasper National Park were ordered to evacuate late Monday night due to a wildfire that has been threatening the area. The evacuation order was issued shortly before 10 p.m. MT, as high temperatures and strong winds increased the fire’s intensity.

The alert warned that anyone in Jasper and within the national park must leave immediately, with officials predicting the fire could reach the town in approximately five hours. However, an update released around 11 p.m. clarified that while the fire’s spread was intense, it was crucial for everyone to evacuate by early morning, rather than waiting for the flames to encroach on the community.

Residents were advised to gather essential items before leaving, including identification, important documents, medication, pets, and emergency kits. The evacuation route to follow was specified as Highway 16, heading west towards British Columbia. Officials from Jasper National Park advised drivers to reduce their speed and use headlights, warning that smoke and ash could significantly hinder visibility.

Prior to the evacuation alert, the RCMP had already closed Highway 16 for westbound traffic at the gates of Jasper National Park. Eastbound access was also restricted, further complicating escape efforts.

For those needing assistance, the Municipality of Jasper advised individuals to seek refuge at specific locations, including the Activity Centre, Forest Park Hotel, or Maligne Lodge, where arrangements were being made for evacuees.

As the fire continued to rage, no clear timeline was provided for when the flames might reach the townsite. Parks Canada indicated that the evacuation process would continue until 3 a.m. Tuesday morning, influencing many to hurry in their departure.

In addition to the evacuation alerts, a state of emergency was declared for Jasper, highlighting the seriousness of the wildfire situation. Local residents were encouraged to keep abreast of updates, as conditions were rapidly evolving.

The Alberta Wildfire management team confirmed that although the fire lies within Parks Canada’s jurisdiction, they had been called to assist with firefighting efforts. Ground resources and a helicopter were deployed to combat the flames. Other agencies joined in the effort, ensuring support for evacuation and fire suppression was maximized.

While the immediate risk to nearby communities like Yellowhead County, Hinton, and Edson was considered minimal, officials stressed that the overall wildfire risk in the region remained extremely high due to weather conditions. They reported that temperatures reached 28°C, with relative humidity sitting at only 15 percent, and winds shifting unpredictably could allow for increased fire activity.

Earlier, fire crews and the Jasper Fire Department responded to a blaze near the transfer station, located about nine kilometers northeast of the Jasper townsite. As a precautionary measure, travelers heading towards Jasper National Park were instructed to turn back, with alternative detours through Grande Prairie or Banff suggested for those already on the road.

The fire presented an unprecedented challenge as hot, dry weather persisted across Alberta, triggering heat warnings in several areas. Amid this crisis, a fire ban had been in effect in Jasper since July 12 due to the prevalent fire hazards.

Travelers en route to the park have been particularly affected by road closures. Alberta Wildfire officials noted that Highway 16 was closed for eastbound traffic all the way to the park gates, as firefighting efforts continued. Furthermore, parts of Highway 93, particularly between Kerkeslin Campground and Athabasca Falls were also closed due to the wildfire.

As night fell and the situation became more critical, evacuations commenced in earnest. The emergence of flames against the backdrop of a darkening sky has been alarming for many. However, officials remained vigilant, trying to keep the community informed and safe.