SUMMERLAND, B.C. — British Columbia's government says a "significant" rock fall has closed a major highway in the province's southern Interior.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure says Highway 97 north of Summerland will be closed for an extended period due to continued instability at the site.
An alternate route between Penticton and Kelowna is available for light vehicles using the 201 Forest Service Road, but drivers can expect up to 90 minutes of additional travel time.
The ministry says travel using other routes is discouraged for safety reasons.
Heavier vehicles and commercial trucks are required to detour via Highway 97C, Highway 5A and Highway 3A to Highway 3.
The ministry says staff are working to have Highway 97 reopened to traffic as soon as it's safe.