Wildfires are raging across the US and Canada, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. In the Canadian tourist town of Jasper, buildings have been burning as wildfires spread through Jasper National Park, prompting the evacuation of 25,000 people.
The blaze in Jasper has resulted in “significant loss” within the town, according to park officials. The wildfires in western provinces of Alberta and British Columbia have been fueled by more than 58,000 lightning strikes within the last week, following a three-week heat wave.
In response to the wildfires, around 1,900 Alberta firefighters have been deployed, with assistance from personnel from Alaska and Australia, working tirelessly to save local infrastructure. The Trans Mountain Pipeline, which runs through Jasper National Park, is still operating with sprinklers being used to protect it.
In British Columbia, more than 400 fires have been recorded, along with 176 in the neighboring province of Alberta. Residents have been recounting their harrowing experiences of evacuating the area, with one individual describing it as a “terrible experience” filled with panic.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has approved federal assistance for Alberta, deploying Canadian Forces resources, evacuation support, and emergency wildfire resources to the province. Meanwhile, wildfires have also been reported in the US, including in Chico, California, where more than 30 million people have been affected by heat warnings since early July.
As the wildfires continue to ravage both countries, residents and authorities are working together to combat the blazes and ensure the safety of those affected.
