Highway 97 through Clinton reopen to all traffic at noon Saturday<\/p>\n
Published 8:23 am Saturday, August 15, 2026<\/p>\n
Highway 97 between Clinton and 70 Mile House will be reopening to all traffic in both directions as of noon on Saturday (Aug. 15), but non-local drivers are not allowed to stop at any time.<\/p>\n
The highway has been closed since July 24 due to the Pear Lake wildfire.<\/p>\n
On Friday, the Village of Clinton and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District announced that evacuation orders affecting the whole of the Village, as well as 373 properties in TNRD Area \u201cE,\u201d were being downgraded to evacuation alerts as of 8 a.m. on Saturday.<\/p>\n
Between 8 a.m. and noon on Aug. 15, Highway 97 is open for returning residents only. Other drivers are asked to wait until noon before travelling the corridor.<\/p>\n
Once the highway reopens to all traffic, drivers are not allowed to stop. Exits and side roads from the highway will not be open to vehicle traffic (excepting residents).<\/p>\n
The Pear Lake wildfire is still active, so speed reductions and minor traffic interruptions can be expected as utility and other recovery efforts continue. Heavy smoke in the area could lead to reduced visibility, and conditions are subject to change with little to no warning.<\/p>\n
Drivers are reminded to respect all traffic control instructions and avoid arriving ahead of opening time to allow for crews to better manage highway traffic. Highway 24 and Highway 5 north remain as an alternative options for travellers.<\/p>\n
Drivers are advised to plan ahead, drive safely, and help to keep traffic moving. Expect additional congestion and delays, and allow for extra travel time.<\/p>\n
Because services along the route have been impacted by evacuations and closures, drivers should ensure that their vehicle has a full tank of fuel before leaving, and carry plenty of drinking water, snacks, and food.<\/p>\n