The Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merrit is closed due to the Mine Creek wildfire reaching the road, says DriveBC.
The highway is closed in both directions as firefighters continue to respond to the blaze, which is now estimated to be 458 hectares in size as of 12:38 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Though BC Wildfire Service has not officially announced it on their website, drivers through the area have noted on social media that the fire has "burned the powerlines and has reached the road.
Located on the east side of the Coquihalla Highway, the fire was discovered on Sept. 1 and is highly visible from the roadway.
The wildfire is believed to have been sparked by lightning and is approximately 44 kilometres northeast of Hope. According to BC Wildfire Service, the blaze is burning at Rank 3, meaning moderately vigorous surface fire.
"Currently, BC Wildfire Service is addressing this incident using a modified response," BC Wildfire said in their update. "During a modified response, a wildfire is managed using a combination of techniques with the goal to minimize damage while maximizing ecological benefits from the fire.
"This incident is currently challenging our ability to safely deploy wildfire crews," BC Wildfire said in their update. "Public and responder safety is the number one priority of the BC Wildfire Service. There is no road access to the incident, and the steep slopes and rocky terrain also pose a threat to access and egress routes.
"This incident is being monitored closely, with multiple helicopter flights daily, and night vision helicopters available overnight, to assess its growth."
Updates to follow.
— With files from Jen Zielinski
