Crashes close parts of Highway 401 as snow falls in southern Ontario

Snowy road conditions are blamed for numerous crashes that have closed parts of Highway 401 east of the GTA in Ontario.

The snowfall has started in the GTA but areas to the east of the city, including Cobourg, Port Hope and Brighton, could get up to 25 centimetres on Wednesday, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

A “large number of collisions” were reported across Northumberland County, east of Durham, OPP said. 

Crashes closed the eastbound lanes of Highway 401 at Colborne and Brighton, police said.

The Ministry of Transportation is also reporting a crash in the westbound lanes of Highway 401 at Wesleyville Road in Port Hope.

There are detours in place, but police asked people to consider staying home if possible. 

“We are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel due to the current road and weather conditions,” OPP said. “Additional vehicles on the roads put occupants at risk and add additional challenges for snow removal.”

COLLISION: #Hwy401 EB between mile marker 508 and mile marker 510 in📍Brighton,ON – Highway closed following a collision. #OPP on scene. pic.twitter.com/quikEOjwv6

— 401_da_sarpanch (@401_da_sarpanch) December 4, 2024

Lead Photo: Ministry of Transportation Ontario 511