Photo: TNRD

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has issued evacuation alerts in three large areas as rain hammers the already soggy region.

Alerts have been issued in low-laying areas of Electoral Area “I” (Blue Sky Country), “M” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – North) and “N” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – South) — the rural areas around Merritt, Ashcroft and Lytton.

"This evacuation alert has been issued so that residents in low-laying areas adjacent to vulnerable
rivers, streams, and creeks can prepare to evacuate their premises or property should it be
necessary," the TNRD said.

The alert was issued based on the "current weather outlook and modelling" from the B.C. River Forecast Centre, with the Coldwater and Lower Nicola watersheds of particular concern.

Properties in the alert area should be prepared to leave their homes on a moment's notice.

Forty-nine properties in these electoral areas are still on a previously issued evacuation order.

An interactive map of the areas under evacuation order is here.