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Jasper Wildfires: Highway 16 Reopens for Commercial Vehicles
Elk in nearby river as wildfire engulfs Alberta forests | Credit: Rawpixel.com
Update: August 7, 2024
Highway 16 has reopened for commerical vehicles only. Access through Alberta via Highway 16 is closed for passenger vehicles. Commerical vehicles over 11,794kg are the only vehicles permitted through Highway 16, passage is limited to these times: 5am-7am, 10am-5pm, 8pm-9pm (MT). All factors subject to change. Contact Alberta 511 for immediate info.
Sources:
- DriveBC
- Google Maps
Historic Wildfire Devastates Jasper National Park
This summer, Canada faces yet another severe wildfire season. Jasper National Park is experiencing its largest wildfire in the past 100 years, drawing intense media attention and prompting mass evacuations in the town of Jasper and surrounding communities.
The impact of the wildfires has led to significant disruptions, including the closure of critical transportation routes. Highway 16, a vital east-west corridor, remains closed, along with Highway 93 North. These closures are causing major logistical challenges, particularly for commercial truck drivers who need to find alternate routes.
For those planning to reroute trucks via the Trans-Canada Highway through Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park, it is crucial to be aware of the various height and weight restrictions. New Provincial permits are required for any overweight and oversized loads, and permits originally obtained for travel via Highway 16 will not be valid for Rogers Pass. Additionally, commercial vehicles exceeding a height of 4.4 meters (14.4 feet) cannot safely pass through Rogers Pass due to the five permanent concrete avalanche sheds designed to protect motorists from winter avalanches.
The evacuation order has compounded traffic issues, adding to the already high seasonal volumes on these highways. Motorists should prepare for very busy roads, exercise patience, drive carefully, and anticipate delays.
For the most current information on wildfire status and danger across the province, visit the Alberta Wildfire website. For updates on road closures in Alberta, check the 511 Alberta website.