A wildfire reached Jasper, Alberta on Wednesday, amidst a series of uncontrolled fires in the western provinces of Canada. The blaze has forced the evacuation of around 25,000 residents from the town and threatens key infrastructure, including the Trans Mountain Pipeline, which transports oil from Edmonton to Vancouver.
In total, there are 433 wildfires in British Columbia and 176 in Alberta, with several burning near Fort McMurray, a major oil sands hub. Firefighters are working to protect essential facilities like the wastewater treatment plant and communications infrastructure.
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The pipeline operator has implemented preventive measures such as sprinkler protection, though they have not yet provided detailed comments on the situation. The Canadian government has responded by deploying armed forces and additional wildfire resources to assist in the crisis.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has pledged support, including firefighting and evacuation resources, while Parks Canada expects rain to provide some relief. The fire has severely impacted air quality, prompting additional evacuations and safety measures for those involved in firefighting efforts.
