Jasper wildfire: 'Several weeks' before residents can return, premier says

Premier Danielle Smith said Friday afternoon in Hinton while weather conditions are cooler, the Jasper fire is still considered out of control and that Jasper residents can expect to be away from their homes 'for several weeks.'

The City of Edmonton says 910 evacuees fleeing the wildfires in Jasper National Park have registered at the Kennedale evacuation centre as of Friday afternoon.

Edmonton's Emergency Support Response Team also told CTV News Edmonton that 16 pets have been registered with them and that 347 households have been given accommodation through the Red Cross.

Premier Danielle Smith said Friday afternoon in Hinton while weather conditions are cooler, the Jasper fire is still considered out of control and that Jasper residents can expect to be away from their homes "for several weeks."

"It's still unsafe for people to return," Smith told reporters, adding that assessment work has to be "done building by building (and) house by house ... so it is a methodical process that ensures the safety of people and property."

She said damage is concentrated on the west side of town southwest of Miette Avenue.

Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland said high humidity and lower temperatures now are "of great benefit" to firefighters, but that a warmer, drier forecast by Monday speaks to the unpredictability of the "dynamic, evolving situation."