No significant growth to Mine Creek wildfire, travel advisory remains in effect

The B.C. Wildfire Service reported there was no significant growth on Monday in the Mine Creek Wildfire, which is still deemed out of control.

The wildfire, which was discovered on Sept. 1, to date, has burned 3006 hectares of forest and wreaked havoc for motorists travelling the Coquihalla from Merritt to Hope.

As a result, a travel advisory has once again been extended for Highway 5 south as smoke and fire continue to hamper visibility.

Drive BC is also warning motorists to watch for wildlife on the highway as the blaze has destroyed much of the wildlife fences along the highway and forced animals whose natural habitat has been threatened to seek safety from the flames and smoke.

Drive BC also warns drivers that they should not stop to take photos or watch firefighting crews as they battle to extinguish the wildfire. You are also reminded that the Juliet and Mine Creek exits have also been closed; however, the Zopkios Brake Check is open.

Motorists can also expect intermittent delays.

You are advised to check www.drivebc.ca  for highway conditions before you head out onto the highways.