Jasper wildfire: Video and pictures show destruction within townsite
For the latest updates on the Jasper wildfire situation for Thursday, July 25, 2024, read this story post.
Video and pictures taken inside the Jasper townsite show absolute devastation and destruction caused by wildfires in western Alberta.
On Monday night, Jasper National Park was evacuated as wildfires burning north and south of the Jasper townsite encroached on the mountain town.
In a video posted online on Thursday morning, the extent of the damage became more apparent.
The video shows buildings burned to the ground and scorched vehicles parked on the side of the road.
Global News has confirmed the video was taken in the Jasper townsite but it’s not known exactly where in the town the video was captured.
Woodlands County posted pictures on Facebook Thursday that also show the devastation, including smouldering piles of rubble.
“Woodlands County answered the call to support Jasper through this unthinkable time,” the post reads. “Four crew members, Engine 31, and a command unit were sent to provide any help possible.
“Our hearts go out to Jasper and area residents and those affected by wildfires.”
Melchior Dressler, who lives in Jasper, didn’t leave the town until about 2 a.m. Thursday.
“The last things we saw were the new hostel that they had built next to the Home Hardware – it was basically burning down to the ground,” Dressler said.
“Initially, when I went into the industrial park, I would say about 60 per cent of the vehicles that were parked all around were on fire and there was so much smoke I actually couldn’t see a lot of the buildings. I couldn’t see hardly anything in front of me as I was driving.
“We saw crazy stuff … the houses just burning.”
Alberta Wildfire officials confirmed Wednesday night that
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