A thunder storm rolling through the Rocky Mountains on Thursday afternoon (July 19) sparked three fires within the borders of Banff National Park.
Parks Canada crews responded to the three fires and as of Monday morning (July 23) they were declared extinguished according to public relations and communications officer David Dunba.
On Friday (July 20), Dunbar said that lightning resulted in three confirmed fires and two of the three "small fires" are located in the backcountry in the Panther Valley and Clearwater areas.
According to an email from Dunbar, the third "small fire" is near the Ink Pots area.
"Parks Canada fire crews and contracted helicopters responded immediately to manage the fires," wrote Dunbar. "These fires do not currently pose a risk to people or assets, and there are no associated area closures at this time.
"The safety of the public, our crews, park infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada's priority. Crews continue to monitor the park for new wildfires and are ready to respond quickly as needed."
The public can report new wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke to Banff dispatch at 403-762-4506.
The fire danger in Banff National Park was increased to high on Wednesday (July 18). Parks bulletins are available at https://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/scond/Rec_Rep_e.asp?opark=100092.
