Highway 33 in Joe Rich reopens following washout

After a washout closed Highway 33 just east of Kelowna last week, the road has reopened.

Highway maintenance contractor AIM Roads reported yesterday, June 15, that Highway 33 between Three Forks Road and Philpott Road had reopened with speed restrictions in place.

Hwy #33 between Three Forks Rd and Philpott Rd now open to 2 lanes with speed restrictions in place.@TranBC_OKS @DriveBC_TOK #Okanagan #Kelowna# Hwy33 pic.twitter.com/dzCGsUL8lH

— AIMRoads (@AimRoads) June 16, 2020

The washout was reported June 10, and the cause is believed to be ground saturation, according to the Ministry of Transportation.

"The cause of the washout appears to be groundwater saturating the ground beneath the road, resulting in the fill and road surface washing out," according to a statement issued by the ministry.

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