By Canadian Press

Park crews helping pets in Jasper as hot weather increases wildfire activity

Jul 31, 2024 | 2:16 PM

EDMONTON — A fire rampaging through Jasper National Park remains out of control as crews work to restore power to the townsite and track down lost pets of homeowners.

Flames that destroyed one-third of the town’s structures last week have been extinguished, and Parks Canada says work continues to make sure fire doesn’t re-enter the community.

The situation is expected to become more difficult in the coming days as hot, dry and windy weather is forecast.

The 5,000 residents of the town, along with about 20,000 visitors, fled 10 days ago ahead of fire that eventually entered the town and destroyed 358 homes and businesses.

Critical infrastructure survived and the town is now flushing waterlines and restoring power, but there is still no word on when people can return.

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Parks Canada says municipal teams are also retrieving lost pets in the town.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 31, 2024.

The Canadian Press