A significant multi-vehicle collision has forced the complete closure of Highway 401 eastbound in Whitby, causing major disruptions for Boxing Day travellers. The incident is one of several major events unfolding across the country, from a fatal stabbing investigation in Toronto to hospital service reductions in British Columbia.
Major Incidents Disrupt Holiday Travel and Safety
The closure on Highway 401 eastbound in Whitby follows a serious multi-vehicle collision. Authorities have not yet released details on potential injuries, but the shutdown is expected to cause significant traffic delays. Meanwhile, in Toronto, the homicide unit is investigating after a man died following a stabbing near Liberty Village.
In British Columbia, two hospitals in the Lower Mainland are preparing for temporary maternity diversions and overnight emergency room closures, potentially straining regional healthcare services. On a more positive note, volunteers on the North Shore spent Christmas night executing a successful rescue of a stranded hiker.
Weather Warnings and Winter Safety Concerns Nationwide
Environment Canada has issued a series of alerts as winter tightens its grip. A yellow freezing rain warning is in effect for parts of Ontario, while southwestern Manitoba is under a yellow fog advisory. Saskatoon is under a snowfall warning, and wintry conditions are reported across the country on Boxing Day.
These conditions elevate safety risks. Officials are reminding the public of the '1-10-1' rule for cold water immersion and to pay attention to ice colour when considering winter activities on frozen bodies of water. The hazardous weather also contributed to a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 1, though that scene has since been cleared.
Other Notable News from Across Canada
Several other stories are developing. In Ottawa, firefighters extinguished a 'raging' barn fire in North Gower, fortunately with no animals inside. The city is also debating the use of beet brine as an alternative road de-icer.
In Quebec, a group of undocumented migrants was arrested in the Montérégie region. On the health policy front, Canada's Health Minister stated that the country can no longer rely on U.S. health institutions, signaling a potential shift in medical strategy.
From fires displacing residents in Cochrane, Ontario, to a 'porch pirate' arrest in Winnipeg, and significant Boxing Day shopping crowds at malls in Kitchener and at Ski Martock in Nova Scotia, the post-Christmas period remains eventful. As the year winds down, Canadians are navigating a mix of holiday cheer, severe weather, and breaking news.
