A Canadian soldier is in serious but stable condition after a roadside bomb blast Saturday in Afghanistan.

The soldier was on patrol in the Arghandab district southwest of Kandahar City around 1:45 p.m. local time when an improvised explosive device was detonated.

"A cordon was quickly established around the area and the solider was quickly evacuated by helicopter," military spokesman Maj. Jay Janzen said.

The soldier, who is serving with the third battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment, is being treated at the hospital at Kandahar Air Field.

The soldier's next of kin have been notified, though his or her identity will not be released.

The region where the blast occurred is well known for insurgent activity, which includes the setting of roadside explosive devices.

The bombs are responsible for 40 of the 97 Canadian fatalities in Afghanistan.

With files from The Canadian Press