Entire City of Merritt on evacuation alert due to wildfire

The entire City of Merritt is now on an evacuation alert due to wildfire.

The City of Merritt issued the alert tonight, Aug. 15 due to fire near the city and is asking residents to pack essential items and arrange for accommodations with family or friends if possible.

The Lytton Creek wildfire is roughly 56,329 hectares in size and burning to the west of Merritt. The Brook Creek wildfire is currently listed at 500 hectares in size and burning roughly 30 kilometres south of Merritt, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service.

The Thompson Nicola Regional District has already said it will be implementing an evacuation order for the Lower Nicola due to the wildfire and is encouraging residents to leave the area.

The Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt is currently closed due to wildfire. Drive B.C.'s website is also temporarily shut down.

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