'You are not alone': Alberta premier gives emotional update on Jasper wildfire

The Alberta premier, Danille Smith, appeared at a press conference this morning alongside emergency management and wildfire officials to provided an emotional update on the wildfire in Jasper.

Jasper townsite has at least been partially destroyed by fire overnight, after the entire town and park was evacuated last night.

Smith said that crews continue to fight structure loss from the fire today.

There is no exact number on what the extent of structure loss is, however images and videos from the frontline show that buildings, homes and landmarks have been lost. However, some posts also show parts of the town remain untouched.

Smith spoke through tears to “Jasperites” who are watching the situation unfold from afar, whose “feelings of loss and fear and loneliness must be overwhelming.”

“You are not alone, all Albertans are with you,” said Smith.

“For many generations, the town of Jasper and the parks surrounding it have been a source of pride, with some of the most beautiful scenery [in the world.] Our grandparents visited to experience the majesty of this place with its mountains and lakes and meadows,” she added.

There are no words. Jasper is burned to the ground. 💔 pic.twitter.com/lV8koLhzUR

— Ryan Jespersen (@ryanjespersen) July 25, 2024

“They took our parents who then took us to this special spot that they'd spent time in as children. And now we take our own kids and our own loved ones and visitors from around the world to feel that same feeling that you get with your first glimpse of the mountains on the horizon—A feeling that even though you've just left home, you're coming home.”

Smith also extended gratitude to the firefighters who continue to work tirelessly to save as much infrastructure as possible.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also thanked first responders for their work, and said that over 400 firefighters from Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are on their way to help in Alberta. They are expected to arrive on Sunday and Monday.

As the heartbreaking images from Jasper emerge, I want to thank the brave first responders who are in Alberta right now, fighting to save every home and every community they can.

Thank you for your courage, and for working non-stop to fight these wildfires.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 25, 2024

En route to Edmonton with my officials from various government agencies to work closely with our partners in Alberta and continue coordinating our efforts responding to the wildfires in Alberta.

Our priority is the safety and well-being of the affected community members.

— Harjit Sajjan (@HarjitSajjan) July 25, 2024

Meanwhile, the Canadian Armed Forces have been deployed to lend a hand to fire personnel.

Last night, the difficult decision was made to evacuate some firefighters due to unsafe conditions. Those with the proper breathing apparatus stayed to continue structure protection efforts.

“Once again you put yourselves on the front lines in a show of true heroism,” said Smith. “Thank you for your bravery and your commitment to keeping Alberta safe.”

Parks Canada is reporting “significant loss” in Jasper this morning.

Last night, the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge reported that the fire had reached the grounds. It is unknown at this time what remains of it.

Importantly, officials reported that everyone was evacuated safely, including acute care patients. No injuries have been reported.

Jasper National Park received a small amount of rain overnight, but while the rain helped reduce fire activity slightly, it is not enough to have made a meaningful impact to the overall situation, which remains out of control.