Traffic accident leads to closure of Highway 97 south of Clinton

Following a traffic accident on Tuesday, June 4, Highway 97 south of Clinton is closed in both directions.

The incident occurred around noon between 26 Mile Frontage Road and Boyd Pit Road. Drive BC says an assessment is currently underway.

There is currently no diversion in place and it is not known how many vehicles were involved in the incident.

Witnesses reportedly saw several rescue workers walking toward the black smoke rising in the distance.

Drive BC reports that the highway is expected to reopen around 8 p.m.

Meanwhile, residents are reporting heavy rush hour traffic in the Little Fort area as vehicles are diverted around Highway 97.

Highway 5A north of Merritt is also closed for 13.9 km between Monck Park Road and Pennask Lake Road due to a vehicle accident. Motorists should expect significant delays. A detour is possible via Highway 5.