Fire risk remains extreme across Alberta, Jasper residents should expect tours soon

Despite some residents from northern Alberta being able to return following wildfires near Chipewyan Lake being under control, officials say the wildfire risk across the province is still an extreme risk.

Most of the province continues to be extremely dry as another heat wave hits parts of Alberta.

Alberta wildfire says there are still several large wildfires burning in the province, including near Jasper, which is preventing a safe return home for residents.

Despite this, the province says they are looking to try and set up bus tours for Jasper residents, however, those tours will be dependent on the wildfire risk.

“This remains the highest priority for the Premier and emergency cabinet to be able to make sure everybody can return when it’s safe to do so, but we think that we’re close to where that could take place, and so you’ll be seeing announcements shortly about both bus schedules and components,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services.

“We’re close to where that could take place, and so you’ll be seeing announcements shortly about both bus schedules and components. You’ll get people access to the community, and see what is taking place with with their homes.”

The province has also noted that commercial vehicles can start using Highway 16, dependent on the wildfire risk.

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Returning to Alberta

The province says they are looking to reunite families that have been displaced due to the wildfire in Jasper National Park.

Many continuing care residents and other evacuees ended up in parts of B.C., including Valemount, and the province says they are working to get them back to Alberta.

Minister Nixon said the province is expecting to have 18 continuing care patients, 10 individuals who are in the lodging system, and another 15 seniors return to the province on Friday.