Jasper residents whose homes were damaged or destroyed by an out-of-control wildfire will be able to view the devastation first-hand as bus tours through the Alberta town begin Sunday.
Emergency management officials says the first tours will depart from Edmonton as well as Edson.
Joe Zatylny with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency notes the wildfire situation in Jasper National Park continues to fluctuate, and no one will be allowed to leave the buses inside the park due to safety concerns.
He says mental health, as well as support referral services, will be available during the tour to help people prepare for viewing the disaster site.
An evacuation order for Jasper and Jasper National Park issued July 22 remains in effect, after the fire destroyed one-third of the historic town’s buildings.
“We appreciate everyone’s desire to return to Jasper and see the state of their homes and community for themselves. Many partners have worked quickly to get these tours scheduled. Being able to return back home to survey damage is the first step to recovery and rebuilding. That is why Alberta’s government made these tours a top priority for evacuees.”
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