Jasper National Park: Wildfire Destroys Half of Town
Out-of-Control Blaze Forces Evacuations, Threatens Historic Structures
Fire Ban Violation Suspected as Cause of Devastating Fire
Jasper, Alberta - A devastating wildfire fueled by strong winds has swept through Jasper National Park, destroying an estimated half of the town of Jasper and forcing the evacuation of thousands of residents and tourists.
The fire, which started near Portal Creek on Monday afternoon, quickly spread to nearby forests and grasslands, fanned by high winds. The blaze jumped the Athabasca River and entered the town of Jasper, where it rapidly devoured homes, businesses, and historic structures.
Officials suspect that the fire may have been caused by an illegal campfire, as a fire ban was in effect at the time. Parks Canada fire crews have been struggling to contain the wildfire, which has now grown to over 10,000 hectares in size.
Alberta's Minister for Public Safety, Mike Ellis, said that the fire reached the edge of Jasper about 5 kilometers away before being pushed into the town by a powerful wind gust.
As of Tuesday evening, the wildfire is still out of control and evacuation orders remain in place for Jasper and surrounding areas. Flames are threatening the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, a historic hotel that has welcomed visitors for over a century.
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