“Jasper, Alta., Opens Up but Outsiders Told to Keep Their Distance Amid Wildfire Aftermath” RCMP checkpoints at the entrance to Jasper, Alta., townsite have been dismantled, but visitors are being urged to maintain their distance from the wildfire-stricken community. The municipality shared in a social media update on Monday that traffic checkpoints near the townsite have been removed as per the request of residents dealing with property damages and seeking assistance with insurance claims. While RCMP officers will continue to patrol the area, services are still limited, and a local state of emergency remains in place a month after a devastating wildfire swept through, resulting in the destruction of a third of the town’s structures.
Christine Nadon, the incident commander for the municipality, emphasized that while Jasper is on the path to recovery, it is not yet ready to welcome outsiders. Services like fuel and food are currently reserved for residents, local business owners, and first responders only. Nadon cautioned visitors that there are no accommodations, restaurants, or businesses open in town and urged for understanding and respect during this crucial time. Those attempting to enter the community can anticipate encountering an RCMP officer.
Efforts are underway to introduce additional support workers and volunteer crews to aid residents in the clean-up and recovery process, though this will require time. As schools in Jasper undergo cleaning in preparation for the students’ return, it was announced that the schools will be welcoming students back on Sept. 17. Additional security measures have been implemented to help oversee destroyed properties and businesses.
A recent news conference held in Hinton by Parks Canada and municipal officials provided updates on the ongoing fire response and recovery efforts. Although an evacuation alert for Jasper was lifted on Sunday, officials announced that the wildfire is now classified as being held, indicating that it is not expected to extend beyond its current boundaries, spanning a total of 33,000 hectares.
Residents have gradually begun returning to assess the damage, with basic services remaining minimal. Despite the emotional and financial toll of approximately $283 million in property losses, the community is focused on rebuilding and supporting those affected by the disaster. While the reopening of Jasper National Park remains uncertain, Miette Hot Springs has reopened to the public, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the widespread devastation.
Cleanup and restoration efforts continue, with work underway to restore access to backcountry areas, trails, and roads impacted by the fire. The Icefields Parkway, a popular route connecting Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper, suffered
Christine Nadon, the incident commander for the municipality, emphasized that while Jasper is on the path to recovery, it is not yet ready to welcome outsiders. Services like fuel and food are currently reserved for residents, local business owners, and first responders only. Nadon cautioned visitors that there are no accommodations, restaurants, or businesses open in town and urged for understanding and respect during this crucial time. Those attempting to enter the community can anticipate encountering an RCMP officer.
Efforts are underway to introduce additional support workers and volunteer crews to aid residents in the clean-up and recovery process, though this will require time. As schools in Jasper undergo cleaning in preparation for the students’ return, it was announced that the schools will be welcoming students back on Sept. 17. Additional security measures have been implemented to help oversee destroyed properties and businesses.
A recent news conference held in Hinton by Parks Canada and municipal officials provided updates on the ongoing fire response and recovery efforts. Although an evacuation alert for Jasper was lifted on Sunday, officials announced that the wildfire is now classified as being held, indicating that it is not expected to extend beyond its current boundaries, spanning a total of 33,000 hectares.
Residents have gradually begun returning to assess the damage, with basic services remaining minimal. Despite the emotional and financial toll of approximately $283 million in property losses, the community is focused on rebuilding and supporting those affected by the disaster. While the reopening of Jasper National Park remains uncertain, Miette Hot Springs has reopened to the public, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the widespread devastation.
Cleanup and restoration efforts continue, with work underway to restore access to backcountry areas, trails, and roads impacted by the fire. The Icefields Parkway, a popular route connecting Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper, suffered
