Chatham-Kent Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging motorists to stay off the roads until such time that it is safe to do so, and the ploughs are able to clear the roads and make them safe.
OPP officers have been responding to multiple collisions and vehicles in the ditch on Highway 401 and Highway 40 throughout the day.
Due to the snow and blowing snow, both Highway 401 and Highway 40 are experiencing poor visibility and the roadways are snow covered and very slippery.
Highway 40 remains closed between Pioneer Line and Baseline Road. Highway 401 remains closed westbound from Bloomfield Road to Walker Road in Essex County. Both highways will remain closed for an undetermined amount of time.
Chatham-Kent OPP is currently investigating a collision involving eight motor vehicles on Highway 401 westbound near Drake Side Road. Minor injuries have been reported. Further information will be released as it becomes available.
We ask the public to be cautious as Emergency crews continue to assist motorists this evening and into tomorrow.
Chatham-Kent Police are issuing a similar warning.
Police officials with the Traffic Unit stated on Twitter to stay off the county roads in Chatham-Kent.
“Blowing snow is creating drifting and whiteout conditions,” they wrote. “Countless motorists (are) stranded.”
Dufferin Ave. in Wallaceburg is also closed between the western edge of Wallaceburg and Mirwin Road.
Watch for more snow storm coverage on the Sydneham Current.
