Coquihalla Highway reopens after wildfire closure

Highway 5 between Hope and Merritt reopened early Friday afternoon after a closure due to an out-of-control wildfire.

The B.C. Ministry of Transportation said around noon the Coquihalla route was open in both directions. It said due to the proximity of the Mine Creek fire, drivers should be prepared for the highway to close with minimal notice. 

Intermittent lane closures are expected as crews continue to assess and repair roadside damage.

The ministry warns drivers of reduced visibility due to wildfire smoke, and an increased risk of wildlife near the road.

Cellphone coverage in the area has also been affected by the fire.

“The highway is being closely monitored, with ministry and maintenance-contractor staff on site to assess visibility and ensure the road remains safe for travel,” said a statement from the ministry. 

It said Britton Creek and Coquihalla Lakes washroom facilities are closed, as are the Juliet, Mine Creek and Falls Lake exits.

The Fraser Valley Regional District has issued an evacuation order for the Coquihalla Lake area and an evacuation alert for the surrounding area, meaning people should be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. 

Thompson-Nicola Regional District issued an evacuation order for one property along Highway 5. It said an evacuation alert remains in effect for about 84 properties in the area, including the community of Brookmere. 

The Mine Creek fire has grown to about 19 square kilometres since it was discovered Sept. 1, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service.

The agency said Friday morning there was minimal fire activity overnight.

It said poor visibility has prevented crews from obtaining an updated track or size, but the fire is expected to have grown.

Crews have also faced challenges due to the steep, rocky terrain and multiple bridges in the area that were washed out by previous flooding.