Jasper Braces for Devastating Loss of Buildings and Infrastructure as Wildfire Tears through Town
The mountain town of Jasper, Alta., witnessed significant destruction on July 24th as one of two out-of-control wildfires ravaged the community, destroying buildings and threatening critical infrastructure.
The wildfire in Jasper National Park reached the town around 6 p.m., shortly after wildland firefighters and first responders were evacuated to Hinton due to hazardous air quality.
Despite this, structural firefighters are still present at the scene, working to save structures and protect vital infrastructure, according to an update from Parks Canada at 10 p.m. MT.
“As depicted in the online images and videos, the townsite has suffered significant losses,” Parks Canada mentioned in a social media post. “Our main focus is on preserving as many structures as possible. Unfortunately, the extent of damage to specific locations and neighborhoods cannot be reported at this time.”
The Maligne Lodge, a hotel at the southwest end of town, was consumed by the flames, as confirmed by Decore Hotels CEO Karyn Decore in an Instagram post.
“Regrettably, we have lost our cherished hotel, The Maligne Lodge, this evening. It has been proudly owned and operated by our family since 1961,” she expressed. “We are devastated and saddened for all business owners, operators, residents, and the people who call Jasper home.”
Related Stories
The iconic Jasper Park Lodge, renowned for its luxury and history, has also been affected, although the extent of damage to the 102-year-old resort remains uncertain.
“We can confirm that the fire has reached the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge grounds; however, the extent of the damage is unclear,” stated the lodge in a late-night social media post.
“We do know that portions of the resort are unharmed.”
Military Aid Approved
Amid ongoing efforts to safeguard the town, Alberta’s request for military assistance has been granted by Ottawa.
This decision follows Alberta’s Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis and Forestry Minister Todd Loewen formally petitioning the federal government for aid from Canadian Armed Forces personnel.
“We’re deploying Canadian Forces resources, support for evacuations, and additional emergency wildfire resources to the province immediately — coordinating firefighting efforts and providing airlift assistance,” announced Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a post on X on July 25. “Alberta, we stand with you.”
Defence Minister Bill Blair also stated on X that military personnel and resources are being mobilized to assist Jasper. Details regarding deployment locations or tasks were not provided by either Mr. Blair or the prime minister.
