Lytton wildfire now estimated at 8,000 hectares
Haunting images of the June 30th fire that ravaged the community of Lytton - 2 Rivers Remix Society
Jul 1, 2021 | 9:18 AM
Vern Strecheniuk
The wildfire that swept through the Village of Lytton is now estimated at 8,000 hectares by the BC Wildfire Service.
The quick moving fire was aided by strong winds on Wednesday night as the Lytton Mayor recounts the fire completely taking over the town in just 15 minutes as people scrambled to evacuate safely.
Evacuees from the fire started arriving in Merritt overnight as the City activated its Emergency Operations Centre and the Emergency Social Support building was opened as a reception point.
Reception centre for those evacuating from Lytton in #Merritt has now moved to 1950 Mamette Avennue (The Merritt Civic Centre).
All evacuees must register even if they don’t require assistance.
Mae Webster, BCEHS Merritt Unit Chief, confirmed that the main drag in Lytton was lost, as was the Hospital and ambulance station. The museum and school were also reported to have been lost in the fire.
Merritt Fire Chief Dave Tomkinson along with Engine 2 and its four-man crew were deployed to Lytton to assist in anyway possible.
As news of the devastation to Lytton continued to filter out, the City increased the lodging available from 72 hours to seven full days. Hotel space in the City filled up fast, however the Civic Centre is also set to be used for group lodging.
The City has also set up the local rodeo grounds as a respite for those who fled with livestock.
As of Thursday morning, approximately 50 Lytton evacuees have registered with ESS in Merritt.
Lytton MP Brad Vis has provided an update on the blaze via Facebook;
The fire has caused extensive damage to the town of #Lytton, BC and surrounding critical infrastructure. The town has sustained structural damage and 90% of the village is burned, including the centre of town.
Neighbouring Telus and BC Hydro stations have suffered extensive damage. In addition, rail and highway infrastructure are affected.
There is no access to Highway 1 north of Lytton, and Highway 12 is also compromised. Detours are available via Highway 8 & Highway 5. There are reports of several injuries. The situation is ongoing.
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