As crews continue to tackle the fire in Jasper National Park, Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper are working on a safe re-entry plan for evacuated individuals.
According to the Monday, July 29 update from Parks Canada, the wildfire is still classified as out of control but has not seen any significant growth.
Officials say firefighting resources from Ontario arrived in Alberta Monday morning to help with ongoing fire suppression efforts.
“Crews continue to extinguish hotspots where feasible and will be moving into new areas, including outlying commercial accommodations and Parks Canada campgrounds,” reads the update.
At the same time, unified command is working to facilitate plans for re-entry. Additionally, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has shared her intention to put together a bus tour for evacuated residents of Jasper to view the extent of damage. However, at this time, the park remains closed and the evacuation order remains in place.
Officials say there are 123 active wildfires across the province, with 24 of those considered out of control, 47 being held and 52 listed as being under control. Alberta Wildfire information officer Melissa Story says extreme conditions at the beginning of the month and two weeks of a heatwave increased lightning strikes.
“More of the wildfires were started by lightning in July than we have seen in the past,” Story states.
The provincial government will host a telephone town hall Monday evening for those across the province who have been evacuated. Officials will provide updates on the wildfire situation and evacuees can ask questions. A recording of the town hall will be posted for those unable to attend the event.
