Wildfire forces closure of Coquihalla Highway in both directions

A section of the Coquihalla Highway was closed in both directions Wednesday afternoon amid the growing Mine Creek wildfire.

A wildfire burning near the Coquihalla Highway forced crews to close the busy route in both directions Wednesday afternoon.

Highway 5 was closed between Hope and Merritt due to activity from the nearby Mine Creek blaze, according to DriveBC.

Detours are available on Highway 1 and Highway 3 in the meantime.

The Mine Creek wildfire was discovered Monday, and has spread to an estimated 483 hectares.

The blaze is still categorized as burning out of control on the B.C. Wildfire Service website.

Officials believe the fire was sparked by lightning.