Drivers looking to take a detour around the closure of Highway 97 between Summerland and Peachland should stick to recommended routes only says RCMP.
RCMP in the Central Okanagan have received several reports of drivers that are stranded on back country roads.
Both the West Kelowna RCMP and Kelowna RCMP were busy Saturday responding to calls where travellers were stranded on unplowed and washed out back roads.
“In one particular case, a woman called 911 after her full size pickup truck became stuck in deep snow along Garnet Valley Road, which runs between Summerland and Peachland,” said Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey. “Emergency crews were able to eventually reach the woman, who was not prepared to spend the night in her vehicle.”
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O’Donaghey says that several people that they spoke to said that Google Maps reported that the roads were well groomed and the fastest way to their destination.
“We would also like to thank our local Central Okanagan Search and Rescue volunteers who have assisted police with reaching motorists and extracting them safely,” said Cpl. O’Donaghey.
RCMP recommend that all motorist monitor the Drive BC website and abide by the detour routes suggested by Drive BC officials.
According to the Drive BC website, Highway 97 remains closed in both directions between Peachland and Summerland. A detour remains in effect. Motorists are to detour via Highway 97 C, the Okanagan Connector, Highway 5A and Highway 3A to Highway 3.
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