Officials in Jasper National Park say two wildfires currently burning in the park have impacted some structures and infrastructure.
According to a post on its Facebook page, the park says there have been some impacts to structures and infrastructure on the Icefields Parkway and along Highway 16. The exact details of these losses have not yet been confirmed as conditions have not permitted accurate assessment.
“Parks Canada will share further information on structure losses once an assessment has been conducted. Individuals and businesses who have been impacted will be contacted directly by Parks Canada,” it added.
An update was also given on the size of the wildfires impacting the area. The north wildfire is estimated at 270 hectares and is approximately five kilometres from the town of Jasper, located between the Transfer Station and the Jasper Air Strip on both sides of Highway 16.
The south wildfire is estimated at 10,800 hectares and approximately eight km from the town of Jasper.
The south end of that wildfire is near Kerkeslin campground. It follows the Icefields Parkway (93N) north to near Horseshoe Lake. The wildfire crosses 93N, a few kilometres south of Wabasso campground. The northeast extent of the fire is 2.5 km south of Valley of the Five Lakes.
Parks Canada added that both fires currently pose a threat to the town of Jasper. All efforts are focused on containing further spread and protecting the community, and no timeline can be given for a re-entry plan.