Regional district planning to issue evacuation order for Lower Nicola

The Thompson Nicola Regional District is currently in the process of issuing an evacuation order for Lower Nicola properties that are being threatened by wildfire.

The evacuation order will affect areas west and north of the junction of Highway 97C and Highway 8 due to the Lytton Creek wildfire. This will also impact the Lower Nicola Indian Band, according to the district's Facebook post.

"We are confirming evacuation details before releasing the order but strongly encourage residents in the area to leave as soon as possible. RCMP are en route to begin the process of evacuating this area. Both highways will be closed at the junction."

Evacuees without a place to stay should proceed the the Emergency Support Services Reception Centre at Chilliwack Senior Secondary School, 46363 Yale Rd in Chilliwack.

The order will be released as soon as possible and will be in effect immediately. This includes all properties in Lower Nicola and along 97C, 20 kilometres north of the junction, according to the regional district.

The wildfire is roughly 56,329 hectares in size, burning to the west of Merritt.

"Fire growth, fueled by hot and dry conditions and strong winds, has continued east of Highway 8 and the Nicola River. Observations place the fire approximately four kilometres from Highway 97C," according to the B.C. Wildfire Service's latest update tonight.

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