A wildfire on the north slope of Snarl Peak continues to burn nearly three weeks after it ignited during a lightning strike and the recent dry spell is complicating the efforts of fire crews.
On July 14, a lightning strike sparked the fire in the Clearwater River valley, approximately 80 kilometres north of the Banff townsite. Within its first day, the fire encompassed 300 hectares of land.
Heavy precipitation halted the rate of the wildfire’s growth and by the third day the 400 hectare fire appeared to be contained within sprinkler and cut lines.
On Friday, July 31, fire activity increased due in part to high temperatures, strong wind, and low humidity. Massive smoke columns were visible near the town of Sundre, Alberta, approximately 100 kilometres to the east of the fire.
Parks Canada estimates the fire’s size remains at 400 hectares and significant rainfall will be required to extinguish the blaze.
A section of the lower Clearwater River valley, between the Roaring Creek/Martin Lake junction and Banff National Park’s eastern border, remains closed to visitors.
For updated information on the wildfire and closures within Banff National Park, visit Information for Visitors.
