Jasper wildfire: ‘Several weeks’ before residents can return, premier says [Video]

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3 p.m. MT: ‘Several weeks’ before Jasper residents can return: Smith

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.”

“Until the fire can be deemed to be under control, I don’t think …