Wildfire forces evacuation of 166 homes southwest of Kamloops

KAMLOOPS (NEWS 1130) — An evacuation order has been issued for 166 properties due to an out of control wildfire southwest of Kamloops in B.C.’s Interior.

By late Friday, the Durand Lake Wildfire had grown to 450 hectares. The fire, about 15 kilometres north of Logan Lake, is believed to have been caused by lightning, was first detected Thursday, according to the BC Wildfire Service. Four firefighters and one helicopter are responding.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District issued two evacuation orders “because of the potential danger to life and safety.” The first order covers 71 properties, the second 95.

An Evacuation Order has been issued by the TNRD due to a wildfire event located in the vicinity of Durand Lake threatening structures and the safety of residents in EA “J” (Copper Desert Country) #bcwildfirehttps://t.co/JCqtJZuQZT pic.twitter.com/ZQQqjIl7n6

— TNRD (@TNRD) July 3, 2021

TNRD EOC has issued an evacuation order for 95 properties in EA "J" due to a wildfire event located in the vicinity of Durand Lake. Click on the link for more details or visit https://t.co/AOHU9XKu4G. #BCWildfirehttps://t.co/PQbWnrYOOe pic.twitter.com/MN6iZX3Kzg

— TNRD (@TNRD) July 3, 2021

Those fleeing their homes are being asked to stay with friends or family if possible. Those who have somewhere to stay can report to the McArthur Island Sports Centre parking lot in Kamloops to register as an evacuee and get connected to services and supports.

Those who need accommodations are being asked to go to the Merritt Reception Centre, or Chilliwack Senior Secondary School.