Around 70 Lytton evacuees are in Merritt with room for more

Approximately 70 evacuees from Lytton were in Merritt overnight Thursday as relief efforts continue for those displaced by Wednesday’s fire that devastating the Village.

“The group lodging facility was used last night but not by many people,” said Director of Corporate Services Greg Lowis.

Another evacuation order was issued Thursday night, but at this time its not clear if those residents will come to Merritt.

“As of this morning we still have room in our group lodging for anybody coming through. We are in a position to accept and handle more evacuees. We do have the capacity to take about 30 more people if they show up,” added Lowis.

Yesterday the EOC in Kamloops announced that their facilities are now full.

The community has been stepping up with generosity however at this time Lowis stated the City is not in a position to accept donations.

“We do not want donations of goods at this time. We simply would not be able to cope with having tonnes of things arriving. We are working with other organizations to find an appropriate venue for monetary donations. Please do not just show up at the Civic Centre with things, that is not helpful,” stated Lowis.

More to come