Editors note – This story has been updated here.

The BC Wildfire Service is responding to the Snake Road wildfire, located about 5 km northwest of Merritt.

It says the fire is an estimated 20 hectares in size and its growth is being influenced by winds in the area.

Firefighters from the Lower Nicola and the Merritt Fire Departments are also responding as are airtankers and heavy equipment.

The Wildfire Service says Highway 97C is currently closed between Logan Lake and the junction of Highway 8, just west of Merritt. Smoke it highly visible in the area of Highway 8 and in surrounding communities.

The Lower Nicola Indian Band has issued evacuation orders and alerts for properties near the wildfire.

The fire is believed to be human caused, though details are not available at this time.

Drivers are being told to check DriveBC for the latest updates on road closures and conditions.