The Mine Creek wildfire, a rapidly spreading inferno, has prompted the closure of the Coquihalla Highway, according to DriveBC.
The closure spans from Hope to Merritt, affecting travel in both directions. Despite the fire moving away from Merritt, Mayor Mike Goetz is urging residents to stay vigilant and prepared.
Goetz emphasized the importance of readiness by advising residents to pack a 72-hour emergency bag, fuel up their vehicles, and organize essential documents. While expressing gratitude for the town’s luck so far this year, he highlighted the escalating wildfire threat in recent days.
Videos circulating online depict the flames dangerously encroaching on both sides of the highway, which was initially spotted near the old Coquihalla toll booths on Monday. The wildfire has since ballooned to 483 hectares in size, leaving drivers with the option to take Highway 1 or Highway 3 as detours.
Commercial vehicles are strictly prohibited from using Highway 8 as an alternative route.