Cooler weather helping firefighters contain Chetamon wildfire

Cooler weather is helping firefighters in Jasper National Park battle the Chetamon wildfire.

In an update Tuesday, officials say firefighters have been able to reinforce containment lines along the north, south and east ends of the blaze.

Tuesday makes five days firefighters have been able to prevent the fire from spreading south.

Despite this, the approximate size of the fire is estimated to have grown by about 100 hectares from Monday. It now sits at 5,900 hectares.

Map showing are of Jasper’s Chetamon wildfire. (Credit: Parks Canada/handout)

Due to cooler weather, “extensive fire contingency measures” – high-volume sprinkler system – will be removed from various areas including Pyramid Bench, the wastewater treatment plant, the Palisades Stewardship Education Centre, and Snaring Campground.

Officials say helicopters and planes continue to be vital in the firefighting effort.

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At this time no communities are being threatened by the Chetamon fire.

Parks Canada continues to work with ATCO to manage safe ways to remove trees from dangerous locations so powerlines can be repaired.