The residents of Jasper are making progress in returning to normal life after being allowed to return to their city, clean their homes, reunite with neighbors, and seek insurance information.

Friday was the first day residents were allowed back after a wildfire forced the complete evacuation of the community, which ultimately lost nearly one-third of its structures in the fire.

Over the weekend, Parks Canada announced that the status of the Jasper Wildfire Complex had changed from out of control to held, and an evacuation alert that advised returning residents to be ready to flee again within an hour was lifted.

Parks Canada and municipal officials will provide updates at a press conference later today in nearby Hinton, after which the media is expected to get its first opportunity to visit Jasper.

The city stated that on the first day of return, more than 500 people visited the support center at the Memorial Park, 350 people visited the insurance tent, and ATCO Gas completed the re-ignition of 335 services.

Jasper National Park remains closed, although Parks Canada said on Sunday that the Miette Hot Springs, a popular feature within the park, has reopened to the public. Jasper residents can access it for free.

"Even in the midst of deep sorrow and overwhelming loss suffered by many, the familiar pulse of the community is unmistakable. Neighbors and friends, who have been apart for weeks, reunite with heartfelt hugs and tearful smiles," said a post on the city's Facebook page on Saturday.

The post continued, "Even in the darkest times, the pulse of the community - rooted in compassion and solidarity - will create the conditions for healing."

Approximately $283 million worth of property damage has been estimated in the city.

Parks Canada indicated over the weekend that bears have been spotted in Jasper. The agency noted that at least two females with two cubs each are foraging for food, and if residents spot them, they should report to Parks Canada.