Waterton Fire: Alberta Treasure Pays Price for Dry Conditions

Fire season in Western Canada is in full swing, with Waterton Lakes National Park the latest victim of what is becoming an annual occurrence of disaster from dry conditions.

Firefighters, many of whom were called in from Calgary, Coaldale and other towns in neighbouring counties, have fought valiantly to save the Waterton townsite. The fire came roaring down Bears Hump and claimed the Visitor’s Centre earlier in the week. Crews were able to prevent the fire from reaching the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. The majority of the townsite is still intact.

The Kenow fire reached Waterton late last week, after crossing the BC – Alberta border.

With an evacuation order in full effect for the Waterton townsite – with few hints as to when residents, visitors and business owners can return – Surex Direct CEO, Lance Miller, had this to say to the people affected by the Waterton fire:

‘’Those in the path of the wildfires burning in Waterton and area, we stand ready to answer your questions and assist where we can. Be safe and obey law enforcement.’’

Some evacuated residents outside of Waterton have been able to return home today, as evacuation orders for both Cardston County and the MD of Pincher Creek have been reduced (94.1 CJOC-FM).

A Parks Canada update today stated the fire is now 36,000 hectares in size, despite 6mm of overnight rain. The fire is still active and considered out of control.