Weather & Science
A Third of Canadian Rockies Town Jasper Is Destroyed by Wildfire
- Some 358 structures burned down from out-of-control blaze
- Jasper fire expected to cause $500 million in insurance losses
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The extent of the devastation from the wildfire that swept through Alberta’s resort town of Jasper is starting to emerge, as fire crews continue to fight the massive blaze that has engulfed the iconic national park in the Canadian Rockies.
The inferno destroyed about 30% of the town, with 358 of 1,113 structures burned down, Jasper National Park said Friday in a statement. All critical infrastructure has been protected, though, including the hospital, emergency services building, schools, activity center and wastewater treatment plant. The most significant damage to homes and businesses was on Jasper’s west side, according to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.