29 Jul Jasper fire continues despite rain relief

The recent rain and cooler temperatures have provided some relief for firefighters who have been working hard to contain fast-moving fires that have potentially destroyed about half of the historic Canadian town of Jasper.

According to Jasper National Park, the weather conditions might help keep the fires under control for the next 72 hours. About 10-15 mm (0.4-0.5in) of rainfall fell in the national park on Thursday night, allowing the firefighting crews to suppress the wildfire and limit its spread.

However, officials caution that the blaze is still not contained, and the relief from the weather may only be temporary, as more warm and dry weather is expected in the forecast.

The recent weather change has significantly reduced the fire activity, according to park officials. The fires have caused extensive damage in the town of Jasper, with video footage showing destroyed homes and streets reduced to smouldering rubble.

The most significant structural damage is reported on the west side of town, while firefighters have been successful in preventing significant damage on the town’s east side.

Thankfully, critical infrastructure such as the hospital, public schools, activity centre, and wastewater treatment plant have been protected from the fires, according to officials.

Despite efforts to protect the town, some homes and businesses have unfortunately been lost, along with some of the bridges in town and throughout the park. The fires have so far affected around 36,000 hectares (89,000 acres) of land.