Chaos on Highway 401: Snowstorm Strands Drivers, Sparks Crashes and Closures
On a frigid Friday morning, a sudden snowstorm turned Ontario's busiest highway, Hwy 401, into a treacherous ice rink, leading to multiple incidents including stranded vehicles, a major crash, and widespread closures.
Slick Roads Force Highway Closures
The storm dumped heavy snow across the Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge areas, creating slick conditions that prompted emergency closures on sections of Hwy 401. Authorities reported multiple spin-outs and collisions due to the rapid accumulation of snow and ice, forcing drivers to a standstill for hours.
Electric Vehicle Driver Stranded in the Storm
One harrowing tale emerged from Kitchener CityNews, where a driver in an electric vehicle found themselves stranded amid the blizzard. With temperatures plummeting and visibility near zero, the motorist faced a dire situation as their battery struggled in the cold, highlighting the unique challenges EVs face in extreme winter weather.
Massive Asphalt Tanker Crash West of Cambridge
Compounding the chaos, a vehicle hauling 40,000 litres of liquid asphalt was involved in a serious crash just west of Cambridge, according to CTV News Kitchener. The spill risk necessitated a major response from hazmat teams and highway crews, shutting down lanes and adding to the delays stretching for kilometres.
Lessons from the Storm: Stay Safe on Winter Roads
These incidents underscore the importance of winter preparedness. Officials urge drivers to check road conditions, equip vehicles with emergency kits, and reduce speeds in adverse weather. As cleanup continues, Hwy 401 has reopened, but the reminder remains: Mother Nature can turn familiar routes into perilous paths overnight.
Sources: Kitchener CityNews, CTV News Kitchener, CBC News.
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