Local and Provincial Emergency Services personel were alerted to a massive landslide between Oliver and Osoyoos around 2:20 p.m. Sunday afternoon.

Oliver and Osoyoos RCMP along with Oliver Volunteer Fire Dept were the first responders.

A mountain slope on the western side of the valley was the site of the slide at Road 14 and Hwy 97.

Hwy 97 remains blocked with North and South traffic requested to divert to Hwy 3a via Keremeos until further notice.

Approximately five homes were affected.

The landslide came from the western hillside and wiped out several homes / structures continuing over Hwy 97 and into nearby Testindla Creek.

This is in a predominantly orchard agricultural area. The mud is approx 8 to 12 ft high over the stretch of Hwy 97.

Police fire and Provincial emergency crews are combing the area to confirm whether there are any injuries or persons unaccounted.

A Police Service Dog team is on scene along with RCMP Air Services helicopter.

The Ministry of Environment is involved and assisting in assessing the situation and cause of the slide.