Alberta, Canada: Wildfires have ravaged up to half of Jasper, a historic town in Jasper National Park in western Canada, leaving entire streets in smoldering rubble and charred remains. Though no fatalities have been reported, approximately 25,000 residents and tourists have been evacuated. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, emotionally addressing the crisis, noted that 30 to 50 percent of the town's buildings have been destroyed, emphasizing the significant impact on the community that relies heavily on tourism.

Among the many structures lost was the Maligne Lodge in Jasper, leaving its owner, Karyn Decore, devastated upon learning the news while on holiday. Pierre Martel of Parks Canada described the wildfires as a "monster," ignited by a lightning storm and intensified by strong winds. With flames reaching up to 100 meters high, firefighters from around the world have been deployed to contain the blaze, though officials caution that the full extent of the damage is still unfolding.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commended the emergency services for their efforts in battling the wildfires. Environment Canada anticipates potential relief with expected rain. This disaster follows a pattern of worsening fire conditions attributed to climate change, with record-breaking wildfires in Alberta last year and active blazes currently reported across British Columbia and several U.S. states.