Beyond Local

Numerous pets from Jasper are currently being housed at the Hinton and District SPCA Animal Care Centre free of charge until their owners can return home or other accommodations can be made.

"Although this will not stop fire activity, it will minimize intensity and provide optimum conditions for firefighters to progress in fire suppression work."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith both visited Hinton on Monday (Aug. 5) to receive a situational briefing on the Jasper wildfire and meet with evacuees and members of the unified command unit.

HINTON, Alta. — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Hinton, Alta., to get a briefing on the status of the Jasper wildfire.

PHOTOS: Jasper wildfire damage to Parks Canada campgrounds

The Alberta Day of Caring for Jasper event itself raised more than $674,000, and the federal and provincial governments will each provide matching donations, with the final total being more than $2 million.

The Jasper Wildfire Complex experienced a significant growth of about 2,000 hectares and is now estimated at 34,000 hectares.

“The wildfire did not grow overnight, showing minimal fire behaviour. The crews are making progress with pumps and helicopter bucketing.”

"I know this is disappointing for many Jasper evacuees who are hoping to see their homes today, but the fire situation is also too unpredictable today."

“Every single person responding to the Jasper Wildfire Complex is in mourning today for our friend and colleague. The wildland fire community is small and every loss deeply impacts us all.”