Fire near Banff continues to be held

A fire near the Trans Canada Highway in the Banff area continues to be held Thursday after it moved beyond the planned burn area on Wednesday.

Banff National Park explains that while the fire got out of control, it has since been held.

“Around 1600, due to an unexpected shift in wind direction and speed, the fire escaped the predetermined boundary. Approximately three hectares were burned outside of the unit boundary,” said Banff National Park in a Facebook post.

“The fire is now classified as ‘Being Held’ thanks to helicopter bucketing, fire personnel, and assisting agencies.”

Evacuation orders were issued at Rocky Mountain Resort earlier in the day but have since been lifted. Guests reportedly started making their way back to the resort around 9 p.m.

Parks Canada says it didn’t issue an evacuation alert for the Town of Banff, as they didn’t see an immediate threat.

Watch: ‘Out of control’ fire near Banff

Although closures were in place at the Banff Legacy Trail and Banff Avenue Trans-Canada Highway Interchange, Parks Canada says the Trans-Canada Highway itself remained open throughout the day.

As of Thursday, Banff Avenue is open, with the park saying to follow posted speed reductions and flaggers as fire crews work roadside.

A shot from above a fire near Banff on Thursday, May 4, 2023. (Courtesy Parks Canada)

They also say there may be delays along the legacy trail, which is the Minnewanka Loop interchange to Banff Avenue, while crews assess.

Fire crews are expected to continue working on the fire on Thursday and proceeding days as needed.