Clearwater emergency department experiences sudden temporary closure overnight

CLEARWATER, B.C. — Residents in Clearwater and area didn’t have much notice as their emergency department faced its ninth temporary closure of the month. 

In a news release issued at around 10:15 p.m. Sunday (July 19), Interior Health said emergency services at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital in Clearwater would be unavailable effective immediately until 7:00 a.m. Monday (July 20). 

Residents in Clearwater and area in need of emergency care are told to visit Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops during the temporary closure. 

Overall, it’s the 10th temporary closure of the emergency room in Clearwater in 2026.