Access through Jasper National Park via Highway 16 is now open only to commercial vehicles.
According to 511 Alberta, commercial vehicles- which are trucks, tractors, trailers, or any combination thereof, with a registered gross vehicle weight exceeding 11,794 kilograms can access the route during the following times:
- 5:00 am - 7:00 am MST
- 10:00 am - 5:00 pm MST
- 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm MST
"These times are subject to change without notice and are dependent on fire behaviour and operational needs. We are entering a period of hotter drier weather and the fire is anticipated to become more dynamic. Access, even during these identified times is not guaranteed," 511 Alberta reported.
The RCMP is controlling access within the Park at staffed checkpoints on Highway 16 in both directions. Drivers must stop and identify themselves at the checkpoints before proceeding.
However, it was underlined that all traffic for Highway 16, Highway 93N and Highway 93A within Jasper National Park are still closed due to the wildfire. Westbound motorists are advised to detour using Highway 40 northbound through Grande Prairie or Highway 43.
Alternately, motorists can travel to and from British Columbia via Highway 1 through Banff National Park.
Highway 93 is closed just north of Saskatchewan River Crossing. Traffic accessing Highway 93N from Highway 11, west of Nordegg, must head south via Lake Louise.
An Evacuation Order is in place at this time for Jasper National Park and Jasper townsite.
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