US EditionCoquihalla Reopens After Lengthy Closure Due to Semi Fire South of Merritt (BC)
The semi-truck fire caused a brief closure hours after a wildfire forced a two-day shutdown, with ongoing risks of lane changes due to wildfire-related damage, officials said.
- The Coquihalla Highway in British Columbia reopened on September 5, 2025, after a multi-day closure caused by a semi-truck fire south of Merritt adjacent to the Mine Creek wildfire.
- The closure and ongoing fire activity resulted from dry, windy conditions and a wind-fuelled wildfire near Hope and Merritt, with an incoming weather system expected to increase fire risk due to lightning and gusty winds.
- Authorities declared local emergencies in the Fraser Valley and Cariboo Regional Districts, issued evacuation orders for nearby lodges and communities, and advised evacuees to head east toward Williams Lake for assistance.
- BC Wildfire Service reported about 140 active wildfires province-wide with over 50 out of control, and warned that lingering smoke may affect firefighting aircraft and cause mild health symptoms, urging people to reduce or reschedule outdoor activities.
- The Transportation Ministry cautioned drivers about possible rapid highway status changes and intermittent lane closures, while smoke continues to alter local weather by reducing sunlight and maintaining higher humidity.
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26 Articles
B.C. wildfire: Coquihalla Highway reopens, Cariboo Regional District issues evacuation orders
A semi-truck on fire closed the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt on Friday, just hours after the key route to and from British Columbia's Lower Mainland reopened following a two-day closure due to a wind-fuelled wildfire.
Coquihalla reopens after lengthy closure due to semi fire south of Merritt (BC)
UPDATE 9:45 p.m. The Coquihalla Highway has once again reopened on Friday after having to close down due to a semi truck fire. DriveBC said the highway is open in both direction between Hope and Merritt. A wildfire activity continues in the area, travellers are advised that they are not able to stop...
Prince George Citizen
Coquihalla Highway reopens after wildfire closure but truck fire causes delays
A semi-truck on fire closed the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt on Friday, just hours after the key route to and from British Columbia's Lower Mainland reopened following a two-day closure due to a wind-fuelled wildfire.
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