The Bald Range wildfire has forced the closure of Highway 97 between Peachland and Summerland, according to DriveBC and local reports. The highway is shut from north of Hardy Street in Peachland to Kickininee Provincial Park, south of Summerland, with video posted to social media showing that the fire has reached the highway.
Highway 97 Closure Details and Evacuation Impact
DriveBC has not reported any estimated time of reopening for the affected stretch of Highway 97. The route previously served as the boundary of the evacuation zone while evacuation orders remained in place. As closures took effect, evacuees were being allowed to use the highway to leave the area to the south.
Prior to the full closure, Erick Thompson, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen communications manager, advised drivers to prepare for the possibility that Highway 97 would be closed as the Bald Range wildfire continued to burn violently west toward the infrastructure. Wildfire activity was subsequently visible on both sides of Highway 97 at Callan Road, and footage shared on social media by user @Nrenton indicated the fire had jumped the highway in Summerland.
Traffic Status and Future Outlook
Motorists seeking real-time updates are advised by officials to check DriveBC for the highway’s status. Because the fire has reached the roadway and remains active, changing conditions could impact travel routes throughout the region.
While official reopening schedules remain unavailable, further updates from transportation authorities will determine when normal traffic flow may resume.
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