DriveBC says that the fast-moving Mine Creek wildfire has forced the closure of the Coquihalla Highway.

The closure is in effect between Hope and Merritt in both directions.

Merrit Mayor Mike Goetz says while the fire is burning away from the town, he is urging residents to be prepared.

“If you have a 72-hour grab-and-go bag, get it ready,” Goetz said.

“Get some gas in your vehicle, get your documents ready. We have been fairly lucky through this year. We are coming into the last days of summer, so hopefully we will see some rain here soon. But these things have rapidly taken off in the last three days.”

Videos online show the flames burning dangerously close on either side of the highway.

It was first discovered on Monday near the old Coquihalla toll booths.

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