Wildfire Devastates Jasper: A Struggle for Survival in Alberta

A massive wildfire has ravaged Jasper, Alberta, destroying possibly up to 50% of the town's structures. Thousands were evacuated as firefighters strive to save buildings. Officials highlight the fire's unpredictability, while concerns rise about potential damage to vital infrastructure like the Trans Mountain oil pipeline.

A raging wildfire has devastated the western Canadian tourist town of Jasper, potentially destroying up to 50% of structures, according to authorities. Firefighters were striving to save as many buildings as possible in Jasper, located within the mountainous Jasper National Park in Alberta. The town and the park, which typically draw over 2 million tourists annually, were evacuated on Monday. At that time, officials estimated 10,000 people were in the town and an additional 15,000 visitors in the park.

'There is no denying that this is the worst nightmare for any community,' Alberta premier Danielle Smith told reporters, fighting back tears. 'We're seeing potentially 30% to 50% structural damage ... that's going to be a significant rebuild,' she said, adding that the fire remains out of control.

Parks Canada reported significant loss of buildings in the town but couldn't provide specifics on the damage. Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland expressed that the community was just beginning to come to terms with the devastation. One significant concern is the potential damage to the Trans Mountain oil pipeline, which carries 890,000 barrels per day from Edmonton to Vancouver. Currently, there are no indications of damage to the pipeline infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)