The mayor of Williams Lake had good news to share with residents in a social-media post last night.

Walt Cobb said that many, though not all, will likely be able to return home next week as the wildfire situation improves.

"We will still be under an alert and with the fire situation [it] could go back to an evacuation if necessary," Cobb cautioned.

The hospital emergency section should be ready on Monday, he stated, and two of the three power lines in the city have been reinstated.

In addition, one of the four grocery stores is "supplied with most necessities" and one pharmacy will be available.

Prior to the announcement, officials will determine if there are restrictions for those under the age of 18. And due to air-quality concerns, those with medical conditions won't be permitted to come back to Williams Lake at that time.

"Only those with their own transportation will be part of the return, the reason for that is in the event of the fires flaring up and the need to re-evaluate," the mayor stated. 

He also revealed that evacuees in Kamloops and Prince George might return on different days, depending on which roads are open.

"Please be patient on your return as you were on the evacuation," Cobb wrote. "I want everyone home safe."

Williams Lake has approximately 12,000 residents and it's the largest city between Kamloops and Prince George.

On July 15 Williams Lake was evacuated because of the threat of wildfires.