Wildfires Trigger Evacuations in the Northwest

In Oregon, the Durkee fire has led to the closure of Interstate 84 in both directions between Ontario and Baker City, as it rapidly advances towards the highway. Discovered on July 17 and sparked by lightning, the Durkee fire has consumed over 239,000 acres and remains 0% contained. The U.S. Forest Service has reported record dry conditions across national forests in Oregon and Washington, exacerbated by recent lightning storms, which have contributed to the rapid growth of wildfires in the region. Ed Hiatt, the Pacific Northwest assistant fire director for operations, warned that this year is shaping up to be particularly severe for wildfires in the Pacific Northwest. Firefighting resources, including crews and equipment from as far away as North Carolina and Wisconsin, are being mobilized to combat the flames. The situation remains critical as the fire continues to threaten infrastructure and communities. In Canada, the alpine town of Jasper and Jasper National Park in Alberta have been evacuated due to multiple wildfires. Approximately 25,000 individuals, including park visitors and locals, have fled the area. The park has reported significant fire activity, with one wildfire burning an estimated 10,800 hectares (26,687 acres) near the Kerkeslin campground. Alberta is currently facing 178 active wildfires, with a total of 940 wildfires recorded since January 1, burning over 535,000 hectares (1.3 million acres). The Alberta Emergency Management agency has classified 56 of these fires as out of control, while smoke from the wildfires has resulted in hazy skies and unhealthy air quality across parts of North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.