‘The magic is not lost’: premier gives tearful update on Jasper fires

Wildfires in Jasper, Alberta, continue to rage.

The fires in the national park have spread into the resort town nearby, and continue to grow.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says a “significant rebuild” will be required once the smoke clears, as it’s unclear still how many structures will suffer damage.

Smith delivered an emotional update yesterday, saying anywhere from a third, up to half of the buildings in the area have burned already.

Parks Canada says crews will likely be fighting the fire for weeks before it’s under control, and even longer before it’s extinguished.

READ MORE: Wildfire leaves Jasper unrecognizable, as premier chokes back tears

Recent rainfall and cool weather has helped temporarily ease some of the fire activity, but according to an update from Jasper National Park, incoming warm weather will be an issue.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced yesterday additional help was on the way, saying some 400 firefighters from all over the globe were on their way to help fight the fires.

Around 25,000 residents and visitors evacuated Jasper earlier this week, many worried about how extensive the damage will be once they return.

Smith says daily updates will now be given on the wildfire situation.

“To the residents, families, and business owners who call Jasper home, we will recover from this,” Smith said.

“And to those in Alberta, and around the world, who have experienced the magic of Jasper, the magic is not lost, and it never will be.”

READ MORE: Fast spreading wildfire forces thousands to flee Jasper