Wildfires Rampage Western U.S. and Canada
- Scores of wildfires have devastated parts of the United States and Canada.
- The fires have prompted evacuations and air quality alerts in California, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska, and Alberta.
- International firefighters are being flown in to help combat the raging infernos.
Fast-moving wildfires have devastated the historic tourist town of Jasper, Canada, with estimates suggesting that 30 to 50 percent of the town may have been destroyed. A massive "wall of fire" surged into the area on Wednesday, leaving firefighters struggling to contain the blaze. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her heartbreak over the situation, noting that authorities have yet to assess the full extent of the damage in the picturesque town, which is renowned for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Approximately 25,000 residents were evacuated earlier this week as the fire approached. The wildfire crisis is not limited to Canada; the United States is also grappling with significant fire activity. As of Friday, there were 96 large active fires across the U.S., primarily in Oregon, California, and Arizona, consuming over 2,274 square miles. In Canada, more than 3,700 fires have burned over 8,000 square miles this year alone, according to the National Wildland Fire Situation Report. In California, the Park Fire near Chico has destroyed over 130 structures and remains uncontained, while other fires in Oregon and Idaho continue to threaten communities. Evacuation orders are in effect in several counties due to ongoing fire threats, including the Falls Fire in Harney County, which has burned 219 square miles and is partially contained. As the wildfire season intensifies, officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders to ensure their safety.