People in evacuated Merritt urged to stay in after dark

The RCMP is pleading with folks who have ignored initial evacuation orders in Merritt to stay in their homes after dark.

The detachment says it has doubled on-shift resources and brought in Tactical Troop police officers to ensure residents and properties remain safe in the evacuation zone.

On Nov. 15, Merritt and surrounding areas were heavily flooded by the Coldwater River, prompting an evacuation order for the entire city.

Views from the doorbell cam after evacuating – safe at a friends on high ground. #MerrittBC #BCFlood #bcstorm pic.twitter.com/93KJl3zcUj

— Jared Thomas (@BCHLJThomas) November 15, 2021

“High flood waters have rendered the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant inoperable for an indefinite period. Continued habitation of the community without sanitary services presents risk of mass sewage back-up and personal health risk,” reads a statement from the City of Merritt.

And according to an update from B.C. officials Thursday, it’s going to be months before anyone can drive on the Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt.

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“We recognize this an incredibly difficult time for our community. We have all been displaced from our homes and are doing the best we can to get through this,” said Sgt. Josh Roda.

“We are out in full force and checking every person and vehicle after dark to ensure residents and properties remain safe within the evacuation zone.”

Police have been allowing people to come into the city to retrieve pets or to collect others who refused to leave initially.

The City of Merritt wanted to provide an update to residents on the progress that is being made behind the scenes, please visit https://t.co/fRYVCoDTVJ for full Media Statement. pic.twitter.com/yzRPhxiduh

— City of Merritt (@CityofMerritt) November 19, 2021

A muster point has also been established at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena in Merritt. There, bus evacuation services for individuals without mobility or transport issues are available.

“Merritt is and will remain strong. At this time, we need everyone to proceed in a calm and orderly manner to safe locations in nearby cities,” said Mayor Linda Brown.

“For your own safety, you must now leave Merritt, for the time being. Please, offer help to your friends, families, and neighbours, drive safely, and take care of yourselves. We will meet each other again, in our homes, where we belong.”

People without somewhere to stay should go to Kamloops or Kelowna for lodging.

Anyone living in Merritt who has questions about the evacuation order is encouraged to call the City or Merritt RCMP.