Canadian Wildfires Threaten Jasper: Thousands Evacuate

A wildfire reached the Canadian town of Jasper, prompting the evacuation of 25,000 people. Over 600 wildfires are ravaging Alberta and British Columbia, threatening key infrastructure including the Trans Mountain Pipeline. Firefighters are battling to control the blazes and protect critical facilities amid deteriorating air quality.

A wildfire reached the Canadian town of Jasper on Wednesday, causing the evacuation of 25,000 residents. The blaze is one of hundreds sweeping across Alberta and British Columbia, putting vital infrastructure such as the Trans Mountain Pipeline at risk, authorities reported.

The wildfire crisis includes 433 blazes in British Columbia and 176 in Alberta. A significant number of these are in Fort McMurray, a key oil sands area. The Trans Mountain Pipeline, which can transport 890,000 barrels of oil daily from Edmonton to Vancouver, is also under threat, passing through a national park near Jasper. The picturesque town had 15,000 tourists present when it was evacuated.

Firefighters are engaged in a strenuous battle to save structures and critical sites, including a wastewater treatment plant and communication facilities. Parks Canada highlighted these efforts on Facebook, stating that the pipeline operator had activated preventive measures such as sprinkler systems to protect the pipeline.

Due to worsening air quality, firefighters without adequate breathing equipment were relocated to Hinton, 100 km away. Officials anticipate rain to provide some relief overnight, according to an update on Facebook.

(With inputs from agencies.)