City of Kamloops providing aid to Clinton-area wildfire evacuees

Highway 97 is also closed in both directions between Loon Lake Road and 76 Mile Frontage Road.

“Usually, we’re putting in an evacuation order pretty much right as it’s happening… but based on the projected growth the Wildfire Service was seeing, they recommended we put 70 Mile on order nearly 24 hours ahead of time. It gave people a bit of time to prepare,” said TNRD spokesperson Colton Davies.

For many forced to leave, Kamloops has become a hub for emergency support. Since July 21, the City of Kamloops emergency support services (ESS) has assisted roughly 460 evacuees, helping aid those who are in need for accommodations, meals and even temporary care for their pets.

“These evacuees are going through some of the toughest times in their lives. They don’t know if they’re coming home to a home. Trying to make them as comfortable as possible in a not-great situation is really important,” said Kathleen Cahoon, an ESS response officer.

With hotels in Kamloops nearing capacity, staff have expanded their search for rooms to nearby communities, with around 113 temporarily staying in a group lodging at McArthur Island.

Emergency officials say the goal is making sure no one is left without somewhere safe to stay.

“We’ve handled about 460 evacuees come through here to get registered for support, assistance, accommodations, vehicle supports, food, pet supports… we’re trying to make as much of a situation as we can for those during this time,” said EOC Director – and Kamloops Fire Chief – Ken Uzeloc.

Back in Clinton, crews continue searching for hot spots and assessing damaged properties as residents eagerly wait for the town’s safe return. Mayor Roland Stanke says misinformation is circulating online, making an already difficult situation even harder for evacuated residents.

“They need to stay focused, stay calm. Pay attention to the bi-daily reports the village has putting out. Look at the TNRD website. There’s a lot of other media is in effect where you get your your factual information,” said Stanke.

City officials say the emergency support services will remain open as long as wildfire activity continues.

“Obviously, we take our direction from the province and so will work as the province is willing to support. We will support here in Kamloops, as we always do with our volunteers in the city,” added Uzeloc.

by Jeremy Russo

City of Kamloops providing aid to Clinton-area wildfire evacuees

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