The City of Merritt expects the evacuation order that was issued on Monday will remain in place for likely more than a week.

“Although the flood waters have rescinded, there is still significant danger and damage that is being caused by the flooding,” the City said, in a statement Tuesday morning.

Staff say their top priorities are to secure the City, while also supporting the rescue efforts of any residents. They’re also looking to see how quickly water and wastewater infrastructure can be restored, while also assessing the damage to other infrastructure in the City.

“As new discoveries unfold, we will continue to inform our residents on the status of their community,” the statement added.

A bus will be leaving the Merritt ESS Centre at 1950 Mamette Avenue at noon today, taking any residents who have not yet evacuated away.

Evacuees are being urged to register online here or to contact 1-800-585-9559 for more information.