Firefighting crews were quick to action on a small wildfire in Banff National Park Saturday evening (Aug. 10) near the Banff east gate.
Parks Canada said the small lightning-caused wildfire in the Carrot Creek area, approximately 0.17 hectares in size, is classified as under control as of 8:35 p.m.
“There is currently no threat to the public, infrastructure, or the communities of Banff, Harvie Heights, or Canmore,” a Parks Canada social media post stated.
“Parks Canada fire crews along with additional crews from Alberta Wildfire and helicopter supports were dispatched and en route to the fire location within 10 minutes of the initial smoke report. As is shown in the images attached to this update, fire activity on-site is currently low.”
The fire is in the upper slopes of the Fairholme range just west of Carrot Creek in Banff National Park.
Parks Canada added that ongoing fire response activities and smoke may be visible from the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff and Canmore.
The fire danger rating is moderate in Banff National Park on Saturday; however, a fire ban continues to remain place inside the national park.
Reports of wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke can be called into Parks Canada’s emergency dispatch at 403-762-4506.
The Outlook will update when more information becomes available.
