Evacuation order lifted for Loon Lake, residents can return home Sunday

Aug 19, 2017 | 2:34 PM

LOON LAKE, B.C. — It’s homeward bound for Loon Lake residents.

Early this afternoon the TNRD announced it’s downgraded its evacuation order to an alert for properties in the Loon Lake area.

Residents will be able to return home as of 1 p.m. Sunday as workers are spending all of Saturday clearing fallen trees off roads as well ensuring water, 911, Hydro and telephone services are running properly throughout the Loon Lake area.

According to Meghan Gregory, Information Officer with the Thompson Nicola Regional District, 40 properties were damaged or destroyed by the Elephant Hill Wildfire and all residents have been notified.

RCMP are expected to remain in the area for the time being to monitor and restrict access to properties that remain on evacuation order in the greater surrounding area.

A re-entry meeting is scheduled to take place Sunday, August 20th at 11 a.m. at the Cache Creek Community Hall at 1270 Stage Road.

B.C. Wildfire, RCMP, the TNRD, the Loon Lake Volunteer Fire Department , United Way, Red Cross and other agencies will be on hand to provide information and answer questions regarding returning home.

All Loon Lake residents are encouraged to attend.