Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
4h ago

Mine Creek Wildfire Shuts Coquihalla Between Hope and Merritt

Extreme fire behaviour near Mine Creek prompted the shutdown.

The Mine Creek Fire seen from the Coquihalla Highway on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025.
The Mine Creek wildfire is seen on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. The fire is suspected to have been caused by lightning, and has led to the closure of the nearby Coquihalla Highway.
The Mine Creek wildfire burning on Sept. 3. 2025 has forced the closure of Highway5 between Hope and Merritt.
The Mine Creek wildfire burns on Sept. 2. 2025. Photo: B.C. Wildlife Service

Overview

  • DriveBC closed Highway 5 in both directions with no estimated reopening time and advised detours via Highway 1 or Highway 3, with commercial vehicles instructed not to use Highway 8.
  • The Mine Creek fire, about 44 kilometres northeast of Hope, was last measured at roughly 483 hectares and is classified as out of control.
  • B.C. Wildfire Service reported Rank 5 behaviour with crown fire and spotting in terrain unsafe for ground crews, prompting a response using air tankers, helicopters and structure-protection units.
  • Officials believe the blaze started from lightning during a late-season stretch of hot, dry weather that has driven a surge in wildfire activity across the province.
  • A separate wildfire closed Highway 20 near Anahim Lake and triggered evacuation orders for properties and several First Nation reserves in the Cariboo region, with further updates expected Thursday morning.