highway 401

Snow squalls shut down section of Highway 401

Commuting is terrible, we all know that. But, usually you can at least try to attempt that commute without interference.

Those travelling along Highway 401 yesterday were not so lucky. The regional thoroughfare was shut down by snow squalls that reduced visibility almost to zero. 

Between Toronto and Kingston, it was basically impossible to see further than about an inch in front of your car, and the road was completely invisible. 

Various municipalities reported anywhere from 10 to 15 cm of snow falling in the area, with the constant downpour reducing visibility. 

Several accidents occurred, naturally, until the highway was shut down for safety reasons. A pile-up occurred near the city of Cobourg, involving about 20 vehicles

Some police officers were even spotted on snowmobiles. Does it get more Canadian than that? 

Highway 401 remained closed in sections for around five hours, delaying the travel times of many by a torturous amount. 

Lead photo by

Sami Ellhajeh


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

Here are all the 2025 statutory holidays in Canada

Huge stretch of TTC subway spanning 11 stations closed for the next 2 weekends

Most people in Toronto now think that the city is moving in the wrong direction

11 million Canada Post parcels now undelivered ahead of Black Friday

Busy Toronto street kicks off major makeover set to wrap in 2025

Here's how much money you could save during Canada's GST holiday

Huge changes planned to 'transform' a major Toronto street

Canadians working in certain fields can expect a big pay bump in 2025