A significant vehicle fire has created major traffic chaos on one of Canada's busiest highways during Thursday morning's rush hour. The westbound collector lanes of Highway 401 in Scarborough are completely closed as emergency crews battle the blaze.
Emergency Response in Action
Toronto police and fire services responded to the scene near McCowan Road after reports of a vehicle fully engulfed in flames. The intense fire required multiple fire units to contain, with thick black smoke visible across the surrounding area.
The closure affects the collector lanes specifically, meaning drivers attempting to access local exits are facing the most significant impacts. Express lanes remain open but are experiencing heavy congestion as traffic merges and slows to observe the emergency scene.
Commuters Face Lengthy Delays
Morning commuters are experiencing substantial delays stretching back several kilometers. Traffic cameras show bumper-to-bumper conditions extending toward the Durham Region as the Thursday morning rush hour intensifies.
Police are urging drivers to consider these alternate routes:
- Highway 407 as a toll bypass option
- Lawrence Avenue or Ellesmere Road for local travel
- Highway 2A (Kingston Road) for east-west movement
- Public transportation where possible
Safety First Approach
Authorities emphasize that the closure will remain in effect until the scene is completely cleared and safety can be assured for all motorists. This includes ensuring any potential hazardous materials from the burned vehicle are properly addressed and the road surface is inspected for damage from the intense heat.
There have been no immediate reports of injuries, though the circumstances surrounding the vehicle fire remain under investigation. Cleanup crews are standing by to remove the damaged vehicle and any debris once firefighters extinguish the blaze completely.
Motorists are advised to check real-time traffic updates through Ontario 511 or local traffic apps before beginning their journeys, as the closure is expected to affect traffic patterns throughout the morning commute.
