The B.C. government is urging you to be prepared for potential highway closures, as the wildfire season ramps up.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has issued a warning to drivers, saying highways, particularly in the Interior, “may close with limited notice.”
“Non-essential travel to and within fire-affected areas is discouraged to help avoid traffic congestion on evacuation routes,” the ministry said in a release Monday.
The warning comes just one day after Highway 1 was forced to close between Spences Bridge and Ashcroft due to the Shetland Creek widlfire.
The BC Wildfire Service said Sunday that the blaze was displaying “aggressive fire behaviour” on its eastern flank, toward Highway 1.
“Motorists are advised to use caution and consider alternate routes,” DriveBC said, adding Highway 5 via Kamloops can be taken as an alternate route.
The Ministry of Transportation says people who “must travel on Interior highway adjacent to wildfires” should prepare for the possibility of delays or outright closures. Being prepared includes having a full tank of gas, food, water, and other essentials and emergency supplies.
Drivers are also being reminded not to stop on highways and instead head straight to their destination, so as not to impede firefighters’ efforts.
In addition to Highway 1, Highway 6 is closed from Silverton to 12 kilometres south of Silverton, and Highway 26 is closed at Wells.
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