Prince George, B.C. – The wildfire activity which has increased considerably in the region between Loon Lake, north of Cache Creek, and Highway 24 to the south of 100 Mile House is causing traffic disruptions on Highway 97.

DriveBC says Highway 97 southbound is closed at the junction of Highways 97 and 24 due to forest fires.  Highway 97 is open between Clinton and Highway 24 to allow evacuation of residents.  The alternate route is Highway 24 to Highway 5 to Highway 1, heading south.

Highway 97 northbound is closed at Loon Lake Road.  Southbound remains open to evacuees from 70 Mile House and Clinton.  The Highway 1 out of Cache Creek to Highway 5 at Kamloops and up to Highway 24 is the alternate route.

Highway 97 is open in both directions despite the fire at Monte Lake.  Motorists must reduce their speed to 50 km/h through the fire zone between 10:30 am and 6 pm and are advised to watch for livestock on the highway as they flee smoke and fire.