A major traffic incident has brought holiday travel to a halt on one of Ontario's busiest highways. The express lanes of Highway 401 in Pickering are closed following a serious collision on the morning of Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
Emergency Response on the Scene
The incident was reported in the early hours of Christmas Eve, with emergency crews, including the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), rushing to the scene. The exact location and nature of the serious collision have not been fully disclosed by authorities as their investigation is ongoing. The closure affects the express lanes, a critical artery for travelers during the holiday period.
Major Disruptions During Peak Travel Time
The timing of the closure is particularly disruptive, occurring on December 24 during the peak of holiday travel. Motorists heading through the Durham Region are facing significant delays and are being forced to use the collector lanes or seek alternate routes. The OPP is advising drivers to avoid the area if possible and to expect lengthy travel times.
Traffic cameras and reports from the scene indicate a substantial backup forming in the westbound direction. The duration of the lane closures remains uncertain, pending the completion of the collision investigation and cleanup operation.
Safety Reminders for Holiday Drivers
This incident serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to exercise extra caution on the roads during the busy holiday season. Factors such as increased traffic volume, potential for winter weather conditions, and driver fatigue can all contribute to road safety risks.
The OPP has not released details regarding potential injuries or the number of vehicles involved. Updates on the situation and when the express lanes might reopen are expected from police later in the day. Commuters are urged to check real-time traffic updates before embarking on their journeys.
