Waterton Lakes

[Drip_Torch]

We all know it... we all love it.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/w ... -1.4285153

I seem to recall, in a typical year they start unrolling the snow fences in about a week or two.

[Queen K]

I've been watching this on facebook and crying my heart out.

Please tell me this is a natural cycle.

[spudnut]

Truly a very sad story.
Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Canada's oldest and scenic National Parks.

[Drip_Torch]

I've been watching this on facebook and crying my heart out.

Please tell me this is a natural cycle.

Well, for what it's worth, it is a natural cycle. Albeit one that's not going to be easy for us to reconcile when it's all over. Thankfully, it sounds like the fuel free's around the town held and we didn't lose some incredible heritage too.

I can imagine more than few of the very tough decisions that had to be made last night.

[Frisk]

I seem to recall, in a typical year they start unrolling the snow fences in about a week or two.

The forecast for the area doesn't look too far off.

[Drip_Torch]

As bad as it is, it's always been known that it could be quite a bit worse.

It was always a big, fun, wondrous backcountry/thirsty bear adventure. But, there were days I knew at any moment it could be us, a few park wardens, a couple RCMP officers, and about 15 volunteer fire fighters trying to get everyone out of there safely.

At least they had some time to get resources in, and the people out, before it happened.

[Queen K]

Around this time of year four years ago now we hiked in to Wall Lake. I wonder how it looks today.

[Glacier]

Currently hot, dry, and extreme in the East Kootenay...

[Drip_Torch]

Around this time of year four years ago now we hiked in to Wall Lake. I wonder how it looks today.

I dunno, but it looks like Cameron lake and the Oil city site took a hit - can't imagine much that would slow it down in that valley.



... And I'll be honest with you QueenK, I don't often experience a sense of loss when looking at wildland fires. This one is very different for me.

[Queen K]

I feel physically sick. Can't watch it.

[Drip_Torch]

Natural cycle Queen k...

1919, Oil City

1919, The road to Cameron Lakes.

It's not the first time, likely won't be the last.

[Glacier]

The fire is burning at over 2,200 m (7,200ft)! The dots represent hot spots. The mapping of the fire is a few days behind.

[JagXKR]

http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/waterto ... fire-kenow

http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/scond/Cond_E.a ... ark=100429

Growth is stated at 33,000ha yesterday. Size now 44,000ha.