We are getting a better idea of the extent of damage caused by a massive wildfire that tore through Jasper, Alta.
In an update late Thursday, Parks Canada said the most significant damage is on the west side of town, southwest of Miette Avenue.
“Firefighting efforts have prevented significant damage to much of the infrastructure in the east end of town. Our priority remains protecting structures that have not yet been impacted by fire,” said the agency.
Structural fire protection units are still fighting fires within the town and continue to fight fires moving from one building to another.
Alberta’s premier said Thursday that up to half of the town’s buildings may have been destroyed, but Parks Canada is not confirming that number.
The agency did confirm that all critical infrastructure has been protected, including the hospital, emergency services building, schools, activity centre and wastewater treatment plant.
The fire was estimated to be around 36,000 hectares in size as of late Thursday.
