Wildfire threatening Waterton Lakes National Park continues to grow

The Kenow wildfire threatening Waterton Lakes National Park has grown to 9,400 hectares in size and has moved five kilometres southeast along the Akamina Valley.

Parks Canada said in a news release that three spot fires have ignited within the parkin the Tamarack Basin and helicopter crews are dropping water on the flames.

Crews also bucketed the South KootenayPass earlier on Sunday.

The fire could reach the AkaminaPass later today, according to Parks Canada, and fire crews will ignite their own fire in order to steer the flames and reduce the potential for spot fires to ignite from embers.

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The fire could spread through the park if it goes over theAkaminaPass and then could threaten the townsite.

On the north end of the fire, Alberta Wildfire is using buckets to drop water, foam and retardant.

Parks Canada is also warning people to be cautiousin the area due to heavy smoke, which is reducing visibility and could affect those with health conditions.

That heavy smoke is also making it difficult for crews battling the fire.

Watertonremains closed and crews are in place to protect the townsite should the fire approach.