A wildfire burning in Jasper National Park grew to 6,150 hectares over the weekend Parks Canada said as smokey skies remain in Alberta..In a update released Monday, crews said rain overnight and cooler temperatures on Monday allowed firefighters and helicopters to safely access two priority areas of the Chetamon wildfire.."Firefighters were able to lay out sprinklers and hoses in key areas on the south side of the wildfire and helicopters made progress bucketing water on the north side of the wildfire," Parks Canada said.."The wildfire is now more accurately mapped at 6,150 hectares. The short-lived relief in behaviour is expected to continue until Wednesday. Without more rain, the wildfire will progressively become more intense in the coming days.".READ MORE: Parks Canada continues to suppress the Chetamon wildfire in Jasper National Park.Due to ongoing power issues associated with the Chetamon Mountain wildfire and the need to focus on restoring all essential services to the community of Jasper, Jasper National Park is temporarily closing Whistler and Wapiti campgrounds in addition to Wabasso.."Existing backup power systems at these campgrounds are not intended to provide power for an extended period of time. The emergency power system on-site in these campgrounds only provides sewer and potable water for campers and is not sustainable over the long term," Parks Canada said..This temporary closure is inclusive from Sept. 6 through Sept. 11, 2022..Campers who are impacted by cancelled camping reservations will be contacted directly about refunds.."Jasper National Park and the Town of Jasper are experiencing significant challenges caused by the Chetamon Mountain wildfire," Parks Canada said.."No communities are at risk from this lightning-caused wildfire. A potential long-term power outage has left many non-essential community and tourism services, including gas stations, food service and grocery stores without the ability to operate. While visitors are not being turned back from visiting the park at this time, those who have the ability to be flexible with their travel plans should reconsider them."."Please consider visiting Jasper another day when the wildfire situation subsides and full power services have been restored. At that time, we will be better able to welcome you and offer quality services," Parks Canada said.
