More Merritt residents returning home on Saturday, others wait

Photo: City of Merritt

Depending on where some Merritt residents live, they could be allowed back into their homes on Saturday, while others will only be allowed during daylights hours. Others still don't have a return date.

Residents in the Phase 2 area will return home on Saturday at noon. Hydro, gas, and internet utilities are all operational in the area. They will join about 1,500 residents in the Phase 1 area that returned earlier this week.

But in the areas hardest hit by the floods when the Coldwater River blew its banks, things are moving slower.

The City of Merritt announced Friday those living in Phase 3 area will be allowed to return to their homes during the day starting Saturday at noon. After Saturday, day access will be from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. No passes will be required for day access in the Phase 3 area.

Homes in the phase three area remain under a "do not consume" water notice and cannot use the wastewater system. Natural gas and power have been restored. This will allow homeowners to assess their properties, but they are not able to move back home yet. ESS support will remain available for residents in Phase 3 under evacuation order.

"The RCMP will have a strong presence in all Phase 3 areas to minimize looting or other concerns and will be stopping to talk with anyone found outside in the Phase 3 area after 3:00 p.m.," the city said Friday.

Those with a home in Phase 4, the area that received the highest amount of damage, will need to continue being patient, as it is not safe to return home for people in that area. Sinkholes, debris and worksites mean it is not yet safe to access the area. The city says it is working to provide day access to the Phase 4 area and will provide an update on Monday.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is advising residents cleaning up in Merritt to separate debris into four piles:

• Wood
• Large appliances, mattresses and other bulky items
• Drywall, vinyl flooring, or other potential asbestos containing material
• Any bagged material. Please double bag food waste.

No hazardous or liquid materials such as oil, gas or other chemicals will be accepted curbside. Rotten food can be double bagged and placed curbside or brought to the Lower Nicola Eco-Depot. Appliances that are no longer working, or fridge/freezers that residents do not feel safe to continue using, can be placed curbside.

Residents who live outside of city limits are asked to call and schedule a pick-up time for materials 250-377-2596.

For more information on returning home, click here.

Photo: City of Merritt