JASPER, ALTA. — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says early reports indicate a third and perhaps up to half of all buildings in the historic Rocky Mountain resort town of Jasper have been destroyed in a wildfire.
Smith says she’s waiting for specifics but says there is no doubt the town is in for what she calls a “significant rebuild.”
Smith made the comments after fighting back tears at a news conference as she sought to console residents who were evacuated from the townsite and now face significant hardship when they return.
Images on social media depict blocks of homes and businesses burned to charred foundations, and vehicles torched to their hubcaps.
Parks Canada says it will provide details when it can but says crews continue to battle a swift and dynamic fire in Jasper National Park.
About 20,000 park visitors and the 5,000 residents of Jasper had to flee on a moment’s notice Monday night ahead of two wildfires.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 25, 2024.
The Canadian Press
