UPDATED: Wildfire destroys Maligne Lodge, reaches Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge grounds

The wildfire, which began in the densely forested areas of the park, made its way to the town in the early hours of this morning, driven by strong winds and dry conditions. Residents of Jasper reportedly awoke to an orange glow as flames encroached upon the town. Emergency services quickly issued evacuation orders for several neighbourhoods, including Pyramid Bench and Patricia Lake, as the fire threatened homes and businesses. Local authorities have established evacuation centres at Hinton and Edson to accommodate the displaced residents.

The wildfire, which has already burned over 25,000 hectares, crossed crucial firebreaks overnight, escalating the threat to the townsite. By midday, several structures on the town’s outskirts had caught fire, including the historic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, which suffered extensive damage despite the efforts of firefighters.

One of the most significant impacts has been on the Maligne Lodge, owned and operated by Decore Hotels of Edmonton. The lodge, located near the town centre, sustained considerable damage as the flames moved rapidly through the area. Witnesses reported seeing firefighters working tirelessly to save the structure, but several of the lodge's buildings were engulfed in flames before they could be brought under control.

Mayor Richard Ireland addressed the public in a press conference, expressing deep concern for the safety of the town's residents and the integrity of its buildings. "Our priority is to ensure everyone is safe and accounted for. We are working closely with provincial and federal authorities to manage this crisis and will provide support to those affected by this devastating event,” he said.

Firefighters from across Alberta have been deployed to assist in containing the blaze, with aerial support from water bombers and helicopters. However, the challenging terrain and high winds have complicated firefighting efforts, making it difficult to predict when the fire will be brought under control.

In addition to the damage to the Jasper Park Lodge and Maligne Lodge, several other buildings have been affected, including a number of residential homes and small businesses along Connaught Drive and Patricia Street. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but initial reports indicate that at least a dozen structures have been either partially or completely destroyed.

The wildfire's rapid advance has also prompted the closure of major highways leading into Jasper, including the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16), disrupting travel and commerce in the region. Parks Canada has temporarily closed all trails and campgrounds in Jasper National Park as a precautionary measure.

Local residents have shown remarkable resilience in the face of this disaster, with many volunteering to help with evacuation efforts and providing support to their neighbours. The Jasper Food Bank and other community organizations are working to ensure that evacuees have access to essential supplies and shelter.

Environmental experts are already raising concerns about the long-term impact of the wildfire on the region's delicate ecosystem. Jasper National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species, many of which are now at risk due to the extensive fire damage.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed solidarity with the people of Jasper in a statement earlier today, pledging federal support for firefighting efforts and recovery. "The government of Canada stands with the residents of Jasper during this difficult time. We are committed to providing all necessary resources to combat the wildfire and support the community in its recovery," said Trudeau.

As the situation continues to unfold, residents and visitors to Jasper are urged to stay informed through official channels and heed all evacuation orders and safety advisories.