Major traffic disruptions have ended on a key Southwestern Ontario corridor after police reopened sections of Highway 402. The closures, which affected travel near London and Strathroy, were put in place following a series of collisions on Tuesday, January 14, 2026.
Collisions Prompt Extended Highway Closure
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) confirmed that multiple incidents led to the closure of the highway. While specific details regarding the number of vehicles involved or potential injuries have not been fully disclosed by authorities, the severity of the collisions necessitated a full shutdown of the affected sections to allow for emergency response, investigation, and cleanup.
The closures created significant delays for commuters and commercial traffic. Highway 402 is a vital east-west link connecting London to Sarnia and the Blue Water Bridge border crossing into the United States. The incident underscored the highway's importance to regional and international trade and travel.
Police Investigation and Reopening
OPP officers worked diligently through the evening and into the early morning hours to clear the scene. The highway was officially reopened by 6:10 AM EST on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, restoring normal traffic flow. The OPP has not indicated if any charges are pending as a result of the collisions, and the investigation into the cause or causes is likely ongoing.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for motorists in the region to exercise extreme caution, especially during winter months when road conditions can change rapidly. Drivers are urged to maintain safe following distances, reduce speed during inclement weather, and avoid distractions.
Broader Context of Regional Incidents
The Highway 402 collisions occurred amid a day of significant news across Ontario and Canada. The reopening of the highway provides relief to an area recently concerned with transportation safety, following other reports of vape shop break-ins across Southwestern Ontario and a harrowing incident where a Sarnia man was run over by a car.
As traffic resumes, authorities are likely reviewing the circumstances that led to Tuesday's collisions. The timely reopening demonstrates the efficiency of emergency services but also highlights the recurring challenges of maintaining safety on one of the province's busiest transportation arteries.
