23 Jul 2024 | 06:24 AM UTC
Canada: Emergency crews responding to a wildfire in southern Alberta as of July 22
Emergency crews responding to wildfires in southern Alberta, Canada, as of July 22; evacuations ongoing.
Evacuations are ongoing due to a wildfire burning in southern Alberta as of July 22. The fire is burning around 9 km (6 miles) northeast of Jasper. The Municipality of Jasper declared a State of Emergency due to the wildfire. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for the Town of Jasper and Jasper National Park; the community should evacuate by 03:00 July 23. Officials have advised people to use Highway 16 to evacuate towards British Columbia; transportation is provided at the Activity Centre, Forest Park Hotel, or Maligne Lodge. Several roads are closed, including Highway 16 eastbound access to Jasper and east of Jasper to the park gates near Hinton, as well as Highway 93 Icefields Parkway between Kerkeslin Campground and Athabasca Falls.
The wildfires may cause additional localized transport disruptions in the region. The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours may cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
