# merritt (news sources) — RSS Amplifier Recent posts from the 3 feeds in the RSS Amplifier directory that cover merritt. Page: Feed: --- ## [Kamloops-founded Medicos en Accion marks 25 years of medical missions overseas](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628985/Kamloops-founded-Medicos-en-Accion-marks-25-years-of-medical-missions-overseas) _2026-08-26 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ A Kamloops-founded charity is marking 25 years of providing surgical and hearing care to underserved communities overseas. Medicos en Accion was established in 2001 by a group of Kamloops volunteers and has since sent teams of surgeons, nurses, anesthetists, audiologists and support staff to Guat... ## [LETTER: Summerland wildfire had warnings](https://www.merrittherald.com/letter-summerland-wildfire-had-warnings/) _2026-08-25 · Merritt Herald · Merritt Herald_ Editor, It is striking that the Premier, the Minister of Forests, and senior BC Wildfire Service leaders expressed surprise at the speed of the August 7, Bald Range (Summerland) fire despite ample warning. BCWS senior leadership had many lessons to draw on from the destructive fires of 2017, 2018, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025. In \[…\] ## [Finalists named for 40th annual Kamloops Chamber Business Excellence Awards](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/629091/Finalists-named-for-40th-annual-Kamloops-Chamber-Business-Excellence-Awards) _2026-08-25 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Dozens of Kamloops businesses, organizations and entrepreneurs have been named finalists for the 40th annual Business Excellence Awards. The Kamloops and District Chamber of Commerce received 210 nominations across 15 award categories this year, representing 64 unique businesses and organizations... ## [Kamloops man ordered to pay ex $50,000 for sharing intimate photos without consent](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/629163/Kamloops-man-ordered-to-pay-ex-50-000-for-sharing-intimate-photos-without-consent) _2026-08-25 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ A Kamloops man has been ordered to pay his former partner $50,000 after sharing intimate photos of her with strangers online without her consent - photos that eventually spread and were viewed tens of thousands of times. In a decision last week, B.C.'s Civil Resolution Tribunal found Aidan ... ## [Three arrested after Kamloops stolen truck probe, including two wanted on warrants](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/629138/Three-arrested-after-Kamloops-stolen-truck-probe-including-two-wanted-on-warrants) _2026-08-25 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ A stolen truck investigation in Kamloops led to the arrest of three people earlier this month, including two who police say were wanted on outstanding warrants. Kamloops Mounties investigated a report of a stolen vehicle on Aug. 7, eventually recovering the truck and arresting three people. Po... ## [Brunswick Creek fire downgraded as crews continue containment work on Ainslie Creek fire](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/629092/Brunswick-Creek-fire-downgraded-as-crews-continue-containment-work-on-Ainslie-Creek-fire) _2026-08-25 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE 11:24 a.m. A wildfire in British Columbia's Fraser Canyon continues to burn out of control, but it is no longer considered a fire of note, with the wildfire service saying the change is due to the reduced threat of it spreading and the downgrading of evacuation orders. Still, the BC Wi... ## [Merritt’s Dr. McLeod retiring after 47 years](https://www.merrittherald.com/merritts-dr-mcleod-retiring-after-47-years/) _2026-08-25 · Jake Courtepatte · Merritt Herald_ Merritt’s longest-tenured doctor is hanging up his stethoscope. Dr. Donald McLeod announced his retirement from his family medical practice in an email message to patients on Aug. 24, citing personal reasons, family issues and recent injury. “I would like to thank all my dedicated patients throughout British Columbia for their understanding and patience with my \[…\] ## [Lower Nicola, Merritt’s Collettville given all clear from evacuation alert](https://www.merrittherald.com/lower-nicola-merritts-collettville-given-all-clear-from-evacuation-alert/) _2026-08-24 · Jake Courtepatte · Merritt Herald_ Cooler temperatures and higher humidity has provided some relief for the residents of Lower Nicola, with the community downgrading from an evacuation alert to all clear. Approximately 620 addressed properties in Electoral Area “M” (Beautiful Nicola Valley) and “N” (Beautiful Nicola Valley-South) were given the green light around noon on Aug. 24, as BC Wildfire \[…\] ## [More than 1,000 homes given the all clear near 70 Mile, Hwy. 97](https://www.merrittherald.com/more-than-1000-homes-given-the-all-clear-near-70-mile-hwy-97/) _2026-08-24 · Jake Courtepatte · Merritt Herald_ Weekend rain in the area of 70 Mile and Clinton along Hwy. 97 has allowed for over 1,200 homes to be given the all-clear from an evacuation alert stemming from the Pear Lake wildfire. The Thompson Nicola Regional District downgraded the alert on the afternoon of Aug. 23 after up to 18 millimetres of rain \[…\] ## [Kamloops RCMP ask public for help in search for missing teenager](https://www.merrittherald.com/kamloops-rcmp-ask-public-for-help-in-search-for-missing-teenager/) _2026-08-24 · Jake Courtepatte · Merritt Herald_ Kamloops police are reaching out to the public for assistance in finding a missing 16-year-old girl. Emma Worthington was reported missing after failing to return to her Kamloops home on Wednesday, Aug. 19, and is yet to be located. She is described as a 5’11”, 120lb. caucasian female with long, dark hair and blue eyes. \[…\] ## [Trade Smarter With IBKR (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/mgT0mXfOOAVf) _2026-08-24 · **Sponsored**_ Join Interactive Brokers through a referral and access low-cost global trading. ## [Light rain helps crews hold Brunswick Complex guards after lightning storm](https://www.merrittherald.com/light-rain-helps-crews-hold-brunswick-complex-guards-after-lightning-storm/) _2026-08-23 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Light rain and cooler temperatures are keeping fire activity low across the Brunswick Complex Sunday (Aug. 23), giving crews milder conditions as they strengthen guards and respond to new lightning-caused fires around Merritt and the Nicola Valley. Between 0.2 and five millimetres of rain fell across most of the complex overnight, with the highest amounts \[…\] ## [Merritt council approves 5% pay increase for next council term](https://www.merrittherald.com/merritt-council-approves-5-pay-increase-for-next-council-term/) _2026-08-23 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Merritt’s next mayor and council will receive a five per cent pay increase after city council approved the change ahead of the Oct. 17 municipal election. Council selected the smaller of two increases considered by the city’s Remuneration Committee, opting for five per cent rather than 10 per cent. The increase will take the mayor’s \[…\] ## [Firefighters respond to new lightning-sparked fire near Kamloops](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628872/Firefighters-respond-to-new-lightning-sparked-fire-near-Kamloops) _2026-08-23 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 7:25 p.m. BC Wildfire has now listed the fire burning south of Kamloops at 'being held'. BCWS has the fire listed at 44 hectares in size. A wildfire being held is projected, based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability, to remain within the current perimeter, contr... ## [Pear Lake wildfire doesnt expand as much as expected as more properties evacuated south of Pear Lake wildfire](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628854/Pear-Lake-wildfire-doesnt-expand-as-much-as-expected-as-more-properties-evacuated-south-of-Pear-Lake-wildfire) _2026-08-23 · Nicholas Johansen · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 7:20 p.m. The BC Wildfire Service says fire activity and inclement weather over the massive Pear Lake wildfire hasn't been as bad as expected Saturday. The fire is now estimated at 164,740 hectares up from 162,325 hectares seen yesterday. According to the wildfire service, expected ... ## [New fire southeast of Kamloops now being held](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628891/New-fire-southeast-of-Kamloops-now-being-held) _2026-08-23 · Madison Reeve · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 7:05 p.m. BC Wildfire has listed the fire as 'being held'. A wildfire being held means it is projected, based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability, to remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary. ORIGINAL: 5:53 p.m. BC Wildfire Service crew... ## [Crews respond to new wildfires following lightning storm in Merritt region](https://www.merrittherald.com/crews-respond-to-new-wildfires-following-lightning-storm-in-merritt-region/) _2026-08-23 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ UPDATE, 8:20 p.m. Fire K61766 near Coldwater is now classified as under control, meaning suppression efforts have ensured it is not expected to spread further. Fire K61754 near Thynne Lake is now being held, meaning it is not expected to grow beyond its current boundaries under the prevailing conditions. A new wildfire, K61785, has also \[…\] ## [Three Kamloops archers win national titles at Canadian 3D championships in Ontario](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628815/Three-Kamloops-archers-win-national-titles-at-Canadian-3D-championships-in-Ontario) _2026-08-23 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Three Kamloops archers have returned to the Tournament Capital with five national titles between them after topping the podium at the 2026 3D Archery Canadian National Championships in Ontario. Marc Britton, Katie Britton and Miranda Sparkes competed at the four-day event in Muskoka from Aug. 7 t... ## [No major challenges for Ainslie Creek firefighters this past week, one more day of inclement weather to endure](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628812/No-major-challenges-for-Ainslie-Creek-firefighters-this-past-week-one-more-day-of-inclement-weather-to-endure) _2026-08-23 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 5:10 p.m. There have been no major challenges to the BC Wildfire Service's firefighting effort from Mother Nature so far this weekend on the Ainslie Creek wildfire, with just a day left before they're out of the woods. "Smoke has really been diminishing fire activity," fire... ## [Lightning, strong winds could test Ainslie Creek fire lines Saturday following less overnight activity](https://www.merrittherald.com/lightning-strong-winds-could-test-ainslie-creek-fire-lines-saturday-following-less-overnight-activity/) _2026-08-22 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Thunderstorms, strong winds and lightning are expected over the Ainslie Creek wildfire Saturday, Aug. 22, following relatively quiet conditions overnight across the Brunswick Complex. BC Wildfire Service said Saturday morning that weather conditions remained mild overnight Friday into Saturday, with very little fire activity reported across the eastern portion of the fire. Some growth was \[…\] ## [Overdose Awareness Day remembers lives lost and calls for action](https://www.merrittherald.com/overdose-awareness-day-remembers-lives-lost-and-calls-for-action/) _2026-08-22 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merrittherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter Each year on Aug. 31, communities around the world mark International Overdose Awareness Day by remembering those lost to overdose and drug poisoning, supporting the people left behind and sharing information that can save lives. The 2026 theme, “25 Years On. Still Needed,” recognizes 25 years of the international… ## [Non-custodial Crypto Payments & Escrow (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/N87R4quslsjL) _2026-08-22 · **Sponsored**_ Accept multi-chain crypto with trustless escrow, instant confirmations, and no KYC ## [Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre renovations on track for fall reopening](https://www.merrittherald.com/nicola-valley-aquatic-centre-renovations-on-track-for-fall-reopening/) _2026-08-22 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merritherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter It takes a lot more than water to keep a swimming pool running. That is becoming particularly apparent at the Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre, where boilers, piping, electrical components and filters are being removed to make way for a major mechanical room renovation. The facility is expected to remain closed \[…\] ## [Indigenous housing project takes shape at Tamarac Gardens](https://www.merrittherald.com/indigenous-housing-project-takes-shape-at-tamarac-gardens/) _2026-08-22 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merrittherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter A new place to call home is rising on Menzies Street. Construction is underway at Tamarac Gardens, where Conayt Friendship Society is developing a new apartment building that will bring more Indigenous housing to Merritt. The project is beginning to take shape on the property, with completion expected around… ## [Stamer distancing himself from Findlay's attack ad, Milobar says it proves his point](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628832/Stamer-distancing-himself-from-Findlay-s-attack-ad-Milobar-says-it-proves-his-point) _2026-08-22 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Kamloops' remaining B.C. Conservative MLA Ward Stamer is distancing himself from a controversial attack ad posted by his party, while Peter Milobar says it exemplifies the direction that drove him out. The video depicts Premier David Eby dressed as a dictator, placing flags over a map of B.C. as ... ## [Lightning, stronger winds could test Ainslie Creek containment Saturday: BCWS](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628812/Lightning-stronger-winds-could-test-Ainslie-Creek-containment-Saturday-BCWS) _2026-08-22 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Crews battling the Ainslie Creek wildfire west of Merritt are bracing for thunderstorms, strong winds and potentially dry lightning Saturday, a day after smoke helped keep fire behaviour lower than expected. The unexpectedly calm conditions Friday gave firefighters more time to strengthen guards ... ## [Council backed Seymour improvements while studying major downtown traffic overhaul](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628664/Council-backed-Seymour-improvements-while-studying-major-downtown-traffic-overhaul) _2026-08-22 · Kristen Holliday · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ The City of Kamloops is moving ahead with $2.2 million in Seymour Street upgrades while studying whether to eventually spend $27 million converting two downtown streets to two-way traffic. City council's committee of the whole voted Tuesday in favour of advancing short term improvements for Seymo... ## [Bike racing, scavenger hunt and live music coming to Sun Peaks for Pedal Fest](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628780/Bike-racing-scavenger-hunt-and-live-music-coming-to-Sun-Peaks-for-Pedal-Fest) _2026-08-22 · Josh Dawson · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Sun Peaks Resort says a three-day biking extravaganza later this month will bring racing, entertainment and mountain culture to the resort community. Peaks Pedal Fest runs Aug. 28 to 30. The event includes a cross-country scavenger hunt, junior downhill racing, a pump track competition, the Fo... ## [Smoke keeps wildfire quieter than expected, buying crews time before shift in weather](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628741/Smoke-keeps-wildfire-quieter-than-expected-buying-crews-time-before-shift-in-weather) _2026-08-21 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 3:41 p.m. Smoke hanging over a large blaze burning out of control west of Merritt has kept fire behaviour lower than expected on Friday, giving crews a better-than-anticipated day ahead of another potentially challenging weather change Saturday. The unexpectedly calm day has given fire... ## [Classic car parade rolls through Kamloops in support of Burgers to Beat MS Day](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628788/Classic-car-parade-rolls-through-Kamloops-in-support-of-Burgers-to-Beat-MS-Day) _2026-08-21 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ A convoy of classic cars rolled between A&W restaurants across Kamloops Thursday evening in support of the chain's annual Burgers to Beat MS Day. Kamloops residents were treated to the procession organized by Kamloops Car Scene, whose members travelled from the A&W on Versatile Drive to l... ## [From the land to the art room: resources available after wildfire](https://www.merrittherald.com/from-the-land-to-the-art-room-resources-available-after-wildfire/) _2026-08-21 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merrittherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter A table full of pamphlets might not look like much at first glance. But spread across the Merritt Civic Centre last week were different ways of getting through the days, weeks and months that can follow a wildfire. There was information on counselling, children’s supports, art, traditional medicines and time \[…\] ## [City of Kamloops says water main break in southwest sector has now been repaired](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628777/City-of-Kamloops-says-water-main-break-in-southwest-sector-has-now-been-repaired) _2026-08-21 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ The City of Kamloops is reporting it has now repaired a water main leak detected in the southwest sector of town. "Because of the crew's expertise and efficient execution, the situation was kept under control with no impacts to water use," the city posted on social media Friday mornin... ## [8.1% APY Plus Free Stock (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/GRNnOUSMNol8) _2026-08-21 · **Sponsored**_ Claim 8.1% APY and up to $1,030 in SK hynix and Nvidia stock. ## [Community services officers help contain Kamloops brush fire after spotting smoke](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628766/Community-services-officers-help-contain-Kamloops-brush-fire-after-spotting-smoke) _2026-08-21 · Kristen Holliday · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Firefighters were mopping up along the Thompson River near Riverside Park after a small brush fire late Friday morning was put out by quick-thinking City of Kamloops staffers. Emergency crews were called to an area along the south side of the river near Overlanders Bridge shortly before 11:30 a.m... ## [Etchart seeks third term on Merritt council](https://www.merrittherald.com/etchart-seeks-third-term-on-merritt-council/) _2026-08-21 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Merritt Coun. Adam Etchart is seeking a third term at city hall, saying he wants to continue building on what he has learned over the past eight years. Etchart was first elected to council in 2018 and won a second term in 2022, when he was the only incumbent councillor returned to office. “I’ve learned \[…\] ## [Heat, shifting winds to test Ainslie Creek wildfire control lines](https://www.merrittherald.com/heat-shifting-winds-to-test-ainslie-creek-wildfire-control-lines/) _2026-08-21 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Hotter, drier weather and strengthening winds are expected to test control lines around the Ainslie Creek wildfire today (Aug. 21), as the massive blaze grows to more than 67,000 hectares. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is also warning residents not to become complacent ahead of changing weather conditions expected through the weekend. “This is not a \[…\] ## [Kamloops man jailed five months after stealing two vehicles just days apart](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628751/Kamloops-man-jailed-five-months-after-stealing-two-vehicles-just-days-apart) _2026-08-21 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ A Kamloops man has been ordered to spend five months behind bars after stealing two vehicles just days apart. Kirklen Petkau-Desjardin, 31, admitted in Kamloops provincial court Thursday that he stole a Ford F-350 from a North Shore auto repair shop on June 7, 2025, and a Honda Accord from a dow... ## [Friday heat, winds could challenge Pear Lake crews before unsettled weekend](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628744/Friday-heat-winds-could-challenge-Pear-Lake-crews-before-unsettled-weekend) _2026-08-21 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Crews battling a sprawling wildfire north of Cache Creek are facing another day of potentially challenging conditions Friday, with temperatures forecast to hit 32 C and southerly winds developing by midday. The Pear Lake wildfire has grown to more than 161,000 hectares, and officials are warning ... ## [Heat, wind expected to test Ainslie Creek containment before unsettled weekend](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628741/Heat-wind-expected-to-test-Ainslie-Creek-containment-before-unsettled-weekend) _2026-08-21 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Containment lines around the Ainslie Creek wildfire will face a critical test Friday as temperatures climb to 35 C and winds blow across the large blaze burning west of Merritt. According to the BC Wildfire Service, Friday could mark a turning point in the fight if crews can keep the 66,557-hecta... ## [More than 80 kilometres of Forest Service Roads eyed for deactivation in Merritt area](https://www.merrittherald.com/more-than-80-kilometres-of-forest-service-roads-eyed-for-deactivation-in-merritt-area/) _2026-08-21 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ About 83 kilometres of Forest Service Road segments across the Merritt Timber Supply Area have been identified for possible deactivation over the next three years, with work aimed at reducing erosion, protecting waterways and addressing safety concerns on inactive roads. BC Timber Sales is planning the work as part of its ongoing management of Forest \[…\] ## [Merritt mayor says backcountry closure being respected, asks province to go further](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628719/Merritt-mayor-says-backcountry-closure-being-respected-asks-province-to-go-further) _2026-08-21 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Merritt's backcountry closure appears to be holding, with city officials reporting zero known violations since the restriction took effect last week. The closure was imposed amid extreme drought and wildfire risk as the Ainslie Creek wildfire continues to burn west of the city. Mayor Mike Goet... ## [TRU students build real-world experience while constructing Aberdeen Training House](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628714/TRU-students-build-real-world-experience-while-constructing-Aberdeen-Training-House) _2026-08-21 · Josh Dawson · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Sixteen Thompson Rivers University trades students are getting a hands-on education this summer by building a house from the ground up in Aberdeen. The project is run under a partnership between TRU and the local branch of the Canadian Home Builders Association. It sees 16 trades students work wi... ## [‘Not a time to be complacent’: Dangerous wildfire weather coming this weekend](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628693/-Not-a-time-to-be-complacent-Dangerous-wildfire-weather-coming-this-weekend) _2026-08-20 · Michael Potestio · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Hot, dry weather, erratic winds and dry lightning could drive a sharp increase in wildfire activity across the Thompson-Nicola on Friday and Saturday, prompting regional district officials to warn residents not to become complacent. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is warning of a potentiall... ## [Local election field starts to take shape ahead of nominations](https://www.merrittherald.com/local-election-field-starts-to-take-shape-ahead-of-nominations/) _2026-08-20 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ The race for local office is about to begin, with nominations opening Sept. 1 for Merritt mayor and council, school trustee and TNRD positions. General Voting Day is set for Saturday, Oct. 17, with advance voting opportunities scheduled for Oct. 10 and Oct. 14. Candidate nominations will open Sept. 1 and close at 4 p.m. \[…\] ## [Pregnant cat forced to flee fire gives birth to surprise litter of kittens in Kamloops](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628672/Pregnant-cat-forced-to-flee-fire-gives-birth-to-surprise-litter-of-kittens-in-Kamloops) _2026-08-20 · Kristen Holliday · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ When Reba the cat was evacuated from Clinton, no one knew she was expecting kittens. The soon-to-be mother cat arrived in Kamloops with her owner on July 24, as the Pear Lake wildfire raged through the South Cariboo, according to the City of Kamloops. "Animal care volunteers realized she... ## [City of Kamloops crews fixing break in water main line in southwest section of town](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628628/City-of-Kamloops-crews-fixing-break-in-water-main-line-in-southwest-section-of-town) _2026-08-20 · Josh Dawson · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 3:15 p.m. The City of Kamloops says crews have identified the source of a water main break in the southwest part of the city and repairs are underway. In an update on Thursday afternoon, the city said there are still no impacts to water use in the area. Another update will be provid... ## [Merritt drug alert warns of overdose risk from potent mix sold as down, dope or fentanyl](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628685/Merritt-drug-alert-warns-of-overdose-risk-from-potent-mix-sold-as-down-dope-or-fentanyl) _2026-08-20 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ Drug users in Merritt are being warned about a very high risk of overdose following a number of incidents linked to a dangerous batch of drugs containing a potent synthetic opioid and tranquilizer. According to an Interior Health drug alert issued Thursday, the substance is being sold as down, d... ## [Toxic drug alert issued for Merritt following increase in overdoses](https://www.merrittherald.com/toxic-drug-alert-issued-for-merritt-following-increase-in-overdoses/) _2026-08-20 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merrittherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter Interior Health has issued a toxic drug alert for Merritt and the surrounding area following an increase in overdoses. The alert, issued Thursday (Aug. 20), warns that a sample of “down” tested in the area contained a combination of cychlorphine, medetomidine, benzodiazepines and fluorofentanyl, creating a very high… ## [Next two days pivotal on Merritt-area wildfire as crews face heat, stronger winds](https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/628618/Next-two-days-pivotal-on-Merritt-area-wildfire-as-crews-face-heat-stronger-winds) _2026-08-20 · Tim Petruk · Castanet.net - Kamloops_ UPDATE: 2:21 p.m. Crews battling a large blaze burning out of control west of Merritt are facing what could be a pivotal two days, with a fire official saying the risk could be significantly reduced if containment lines hold through Thursday and Friday's hot and dry weather. The Ainslie Creek ... ## [Seven kilometers at a time: Merritt runner earns spot on Team Canada](https://www.merrittherald.com/seven-kilometers-at-a-time-merritt-runner-earns-spot-on-team-canada/) _2026-08-20 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merritherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter Seven kilometres. One hour. Then do it again. And again. And keep going until everyone else quits. That is the deceptively simple idea behind the Backyard Ultra, and this October, Merritt runner Mark Nendick will take on the gruelling challenge as a member of Team Canada. “You run seven kilometres. \[…\] ## [Four spot fires contained near Maka Creek, planned ignition brings heavier smoke](https://www.merrittherald.com/four-spot-fires-contained-near-maka-creek-planned-ignition-brings-heavier-smoke/) _2026-08-20 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ Four spot fires that crossed Maka Creek east of the Ainslie Creek wildfire were contained after crews and helicopters worked through the night, as warmer, drier and windier conditions are expected to increase fire activity later this week. The spots, all under one hectare, crossed Maka Creek Wednesday (Aug. 19). BC Wildfire Service said crews \[…\] ## [Baxter sets sights on full council term](https://www.merrittherald.com/baxter-sets-sights-on-full-council-term/) _2026-08-19 · Marius Auer · Merritt Herald_ After joining Merritt city council midway through the current term, Coun. Yvette Baxter says there is more work she wants to see through. Baxter was elected in an April 2024 byelection to fill the council seat left vacant following the death of Coun. Claire Newman. She had previously run for council in the 2022 municipal \[…\] ## [Looks inviting, but know before you go: Paramedic urges water safety this summer](https://www.merrittherald.com/looks-inviting-but-know-before-you-go-paramedic-urges-water-safety-this-summer/) _2026-08-19 · Elizabeth Jolicoeur · Merritt Herald_ Elizabeth Jolicoeurcommunity@merritherald.comLocal Journalism Initiative Reporter On a hot summer day, there are few things more inviting than a cool B.C. lake. But before kicking off the shoes and jumping straight in, a longtime B.C. paramedic has a simple message: know what you’re jumping into, because when someone gets into trouble, drowning may be far quieter \[…\]