1 p.m. MT: 30% of town structures destroyed, say officials
Jasper National Park officials say about 30 per cent of the structures in the Town of Jasper were destroyed in this week’s wildfire.
In a Friday afternoon update, officials reported 358 of the 1,113 structures in the townsite have been destroyed, adding all critical infrastructure “was successfully protected, including the hospital, emergency services building, both elementary and junior/senior schools, activity centre and wastewater treatment plant.”
Media are scheduled for a tour of the townsite today.
12 p.m. MT: Premier to tour townsite Friday
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is set to tour the resort town of Jasper to see firsthand the devastation caused by wildfires.
Smith is also expected to give an update on firefighting efforts.
Cool wet weather overnight has helped fire crews, but the weekend forecast is for the heat to return.
Wildfires menacing the town flared up into towering walls of flame Wednesday night, breaching defences and destroying homes and businesses.
Critical infrastructure, including schools and the hospital, remain intact.
About 25,000 people had to flee Jasper National Park ahead of the fires Monday, including about 5,000 residents of the town.
– The Canadian Press