National News posted Aug 17, 2024 @ 04:15pm by Corvin Vaski

Jasper Wildfire complex classified as ‘being held’

A day after residents of Jasper began returning to their homes after nearly a month away, the status of the Jasper Wildfire complex has changed to “being held.”

<who> Photo Credit: Jasper National Park

“All of us here with the unified command team have mixed emotions as we make this announcement today,” reads an update from Jasper National Park.

“We thank all of the responders involved in helping us achieve this milestone, while also recognizing the loss of Morgan Kitchen, the young firefighter from Calgary who lost his life on Aug. 3 while working to bring this blaze under control.”

The update from the national park gave an overview of the situation in the early days of the fires and the conditions first responders experienced.

On July 24, winds increased to more than 100km/hr, so strong that a 20-foot shipping container weighing 6,700 lbs was lifted more than 100 metres from a campground into the Athabasca River.

<who> Photo Credit: Jasper National Park

“We’re proud to call this wildfire being held on day 27, especially on the day of Morgan Kitchen’s memorial in Calgary,” reads the update.

“This is what we have all been working towards, but the work isn’t done yet. 580 people on the incident continue to work towards ensuring public safety beyond the town so Jasper National Park can heal.”

Officials are reminding the public that Jasper National Park is a no-drone zone and recreational drone users can face a fine of $25,000.

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