Wildfire prompts evacuation order for Canadian national park
Authorities in the Canadian state of Alberta have ordered residents and tourists to evacuate the town of Jasper and Jasper National Park owing to a nearby wildfire.
The evacuation order was issued late on Monday (22 July) following a wildfire alert, with a fire burning south of the town. The order applies to "everyone located in Jasper".
"Everyone in Jasper must evacuate now," read the order from the Municipality of Jasper, which added people should take Highway 16 west towards British Columbia.
Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer rail experiences are currently unaffected. "At this time, all First Passage to the West and Rockies to the Red Rocks journeys are scheduled to depart as planned," said the operator.
The municipality has set up two designated community reception centres where evacuees can seek support, as well as rest stops along highways leading away from areas covered by the order.
It added it was working with the Government of Alberta to established a large city reception centre. According to the government, around 7,500 are currently under evacuation orders.
According to the government, there are currently more than 160 wildfires burning across the province, to which more than 1,800 personnel, 156 helicopters and 21 aircraft are responding.
Since the start of the year, there have been 925 in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, burning through nearly 500,000 hectares of land.
Of those fires still burning, 52 are classed as being "out of control", while 60 are being "held". Four "of note" are burning in the Forest Protection Area.
Jasper’s mayor, Richard Ireland, told local media overnight efforts to evacuate the town and "all outlying accommodation and campgrounds" in the national park were in full swing.
Jasper National Park is the largest national park in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, spanning around 11,000 square kilometres, and is known for its wildlife and trails.
Rocky Mountaineer added: "Please be aware that there may be some reduced visibility of scenery and outdoor air quality along the Canadian routes due to wildfires.
"In areas where the air quality is affected, the health authorities recommend you reduce your exposure by staying indoors where there is air conditioning and avoid strenuous or prolonged activities outside, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
"The motor coaches to and from your hotel, and most hotel rooms and restaurants will have air conditioning. Our team will do everything it can to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all who travel with us."
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