Wondering where the smoke around Jasper is coming from? Worried that it might be a harbinger of the looming apocalypse?

Don’t worry. According to Parks Canada, there is an entirely rational explanation for the heavy smoke seen particularly on August 17.

Kim Weir, a fire communications officer with Jasper National Park, stated in a press release that “The dense haze of smoke visible in the Jasper townsite and most areas of the park is coming from British Columbia, where several fires are presently burning.”

Many of the fires are burning north-west of Kamloops, B.C. and the majority of the smoke around Jasper appears to be coming from there.

The fires are not coming from fires burning exceptionally close to Jasper.

Fire danger around Jasper, as of August 17, was rated as moderate.

“Forest conditions are presently similar to an average warm, dry August. The significant precipitation we received through July has temporarily modified very dry spring conditions,” stated Weir in the press release.

Alberta Health Authorities recommend the following website for more information on smoke and its effects: www.cdc.gov/nceh/airpollution/airquality/

If you are experiencing smoke-related symptoms, you may wish to contact Alberta Health Link at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).