Firefighters on a break watch helicopters bucket smouldering wildfires in the forest outside of Jasper, Alta., on Friday, July 26, 2024.AMBER BRACKEN/The Canadian Press
King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expressing their deep sympathy for those affected by the wildfires in Western Canada, including what they describe as the “truly magical” Jasper National Park.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Royal Family said they are especially saddened to see the significant damage in Jasper, Alta., which remains closed to the public with no timeline for re-entry after wildfires destroyed roughly one-third of the famed alpine town’s structures last week.
“Our thoughts are particularly with those who have lost their homes and property and have had to be relocated,” the King and Camilla said in the statement.
“We are immensely saddened to see the significant damage that has occurred in Jasper – a truly magical place, whose rugged and romantic beauty has captivated Canadians and travellers from around the world.”
The wildfire in Jasper National Park has consumed 32,000 hectares, making it the largest burn in the area in the past 100 years. More than 10,000 seasonal and permanent Jasper residents have been forced to evacuate, along with 15,000 visitors in the town and national park.
Prince Charles, Prince of Wales (L) and Prince Andrew, Duke of York dress as cowboys on March 1, 1977 at Calgary in Canada.Anwar Hussein/Getty Images
“These are dark times, but we greatly admire the strength and resilience of so many people to persevere and rebuild,” the Royal Family added, commending Canadians who are assisting their neighbours and friends through the difficult period. “From our experience that has always been the Canadian way.”
Parks Canada has said the fires in Jasper National Park could burn for months. On Monday, Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, said that although a staged re-entry is being planned, nearby active wildfires are continuing to pose a threat.
The King said the work of first responders – including firefighters, police, healthcare professionals, community volunteers and leaders – are a reminder of the dedication that lies in public service.
“The number of firefighters who have come from across the world to offer their services speaks not only to the sense of solidarity that exists within that professional community, but also the high regard in which Canada and Canadians are held around the world,” he added.