At least 10,000 residents and tourists were forced to evacuate from Jasper National Park after wildfires spread across the region Monday night, prompting the City of Calgary to open its Emergency Operations Centre to support evacuees.
The city’s municipal emergency plan has been activated and a reception centre has been set up at Shouldice Arena in northwest Calgary. It will offer resources such as mental health support and temporary accommodation options for evacuees and their pets, according to a release.
“Our doors are open to support those that have been displaced by this emergency in what I’m sure is a very difficult time,” Sue Henry, chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, said Tuesday.
“Our hearts are with those impacted, as well as all first responders who stayed behind to manage the emergency. We are all neighbours. We will make individuals feel as welcome as possible while they are here.”
Evacuees in need of temporary accommodation are being asked to register with the province and seek assistance at the reception centre, which will stay open until 11 p.m.
“This is a quickly evolving emergency, and we are willing and ready to provide additional supports as required,” Henry said.
“We understand the importance of working together and being flexible as the situation changes.”
The encroaching wildfire is burning 12 kilometres south of the Jasper townsite, blocking escape along Highway 93. Meanwhile, there is a smaller group of fires about five kilometres northeast of the community, blocking escape along Highway 16 to Edmonton.
Parks Canada is calling it “an evolving and dynamic situation” as it responds to several fires in the area.
The wildfires forced many to head west toward British Columbia in the middle of the night, battling uncertainty, darkness and massive traffic as residents and visitors made their way out of the mountain town.
Provincial officials are co-ordinating with numerous Parks Canada and municipal officials to help contain the fires and oversee evacuation efforts.