(Reuters) – A roaring wildfire has destroyed the western Canadian tourist town of Jasper, potentially burning up to 50% of structures, and firefighters were working on Thursday to preserve as many buildings as possible, according to authorities.
Jasper is located in the mountains of Jasper National Park in the Canadian province of Alberta. The town and park, which attract over 2 million tourists each year, were evacuated on Monday, with officials estimating that there were up to 10,000 people in the town and an additional 15,000 visitors in the park.
“There is no denying that this is the worst nightmare for any community,” Alberta Premier Danielle Smith told reporters, fighting back tears.
