Wildfires in British Columbia have led to the closure of two major highways, including the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) between Hope and Merritt. The closure was announced late Wednesday afternoon due to the nearby Mine Creek wildfire, which has been burning aggressively since it was discovered on Monday.

Highway 20, located east of Bella Coola and west of Anahim Lake, is also closed due to a separate wildfire. DriveBC has not provided an immediate detour for the affected routes, and the next update is expected Thursday morning.

The Mine Creek wildfire has expanded significantly, now covering 483 hectares, up from just over 100 hectares at the start of the week. It is believed to have been ignited by lightning. Firefighters are facing challenges as the fire is located in difficult terrain.

Taylor Stewart-Shantz, an information officer with the B.C. Wildfire Service, reported that the fire jumped the highway and is burning with high intensity. "The fire is currently threatening the Coquihalla Highway; at the recommendation of the Wildfire Service, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit has closed down the highway at this time," she stated.

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz has urged residents to prepare for potential evacuations, advising them to have a 72-hour grab-and-go bag ready. "Get some gas in your vehicle, get your documents ready," he said.

As the fire continues to spread, air quality warnings have been issued across the province due to smoke. The situation has prompted evacuation orders for 150 parcels of land and several First Nation reserves in the Cariboo Regional District.

Drivers are advised to use Highway 1 or Highway 3 as alternate routes, but commercial vehicles are prohibited from using Highway 8. The next update on the wildfire situation is anticipated at 8 a.m. PT on Thursday.