Tourism Jasper says the town will be reliant on tourism spend to recover following the devastation caused by the continuing wildfires.
The Jasper Wildfire Complex is still classified as out of control and it remains steady at 34,000 hectacres, according to an update from Parks Canada. Cooler weather and rain has helped firefighters to extinguish critical portions of the fire.
Canadian officials have confirmed that 358 out of 1,113 structures were destroyed in the town of Jasper. It is estimated that 25,000 people were forced to evacuate.
Many residents lost their homes to what is the largest fire recorded in the national park in 100 years.
A series of supervised bus tours have enabled evacuees to see Jasper and the damage that had been done to their homes, announced the Alberta Emergency Management Agency, with more to be scheduled in the coming days.
Alberta motorway Icefield’s Parkway is due to partially re-open to drivers on August 8, according to Parks Canada.
A statement from Tyler Riopel, CEO of Tourism Jasper, said: “Jasper is grieving right now. In the wake of the news that the wildfire had reached our town and the Jasper Wildfire Complex is still classified as out of control, we are faced with a level of loss that’s yet to be quantified. Jasperites will be back to rebuild and when they do, one of the best ways to help them in the long term will be to spend within the town.
“Since this tragedy began, we’ve been touched by the outpouring of love and support from people around the world. Although we understand changing travel plans can be frustrating, we ask visitors for patience and grace as we wait for a complete picture to develop of the current situation and turn to the future of our community. Jasper will stand tall through this.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated on Facebook: “These fires escalated rapidly and I’m grateful for the brave first responders — and the neighbouring towns opening their homes to evacuees. Jasper, we’re here for you.”
Visitors are encouraged to donate to non-profit Jasper Community Team Society to ensure funds go directly to relief and recovery efforts.
Image credit: Reuters
