A major collision has forced the complete closure of southbound Highway 400 at Finch Avenue in Toronto, leaving one driver with critical injuries. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, January 15, 2026, adding to the travel chaos caused by a significant winter storm blanketing the Greater Toronto Area.
Collision Details and Emergency Response
The multi-vehicle collision was reported shortly before 4:15 PM EST. Emergency crews, including paramedics and Toronto police, responded swiftly to the scene. One driver was transported to a trauma centre in critical condition. The exact cause of the crash is under investigation, but authorities have cited the deteriorating weather conditions as a likely contributing factor.
As a result, all southbound lanes of Highway 400 at the Finch Avenue interchange are closed indefinitely. Police are advising motorists to avoid the area entirely and seek alternate routes. Traffic is being diverted off the highway at Finch, causing significant backups on local arteries.
Storm Compounds Travel Chaos Across GTA
The serious crash occurred amid a major winter storm that has brought up to 30 centimetres of snow and cold temperatures to southern Ontario. The conditions have created hazardous driving situations across the region, prompting numerous warnings from officials.
Peel Regional Police reiterated driving safety tips, urging travellers to pack an emergency kit including gloves, an emergency blanket, and extra windshield fluid. The CAA also urged drivers to "plan and prepare" extensively before any travel. Meanwhile, the City of Toronto has deployed an additional 100 staff from other divisions to aid in snow clearing operations, as Mayor Olivia Chow acknowledged the challenging cleanup.
Widespread Storm Impacts: Closures and Cancellations
The storm's reach extends far beyond the highways. Most school boards across the GTA closed schools or cancelled buses, granting students an unexpected snow day. Public transit has also been affected; while the TTC reported its subway lines were running well, numerous bus and streetcar routes experienced cancellations.
In a separate but timely closure, the Finch West LRT line was officially shut down due to pre-existing track issues and the ongoing snow clearing effort. To help residents cope with the cold, the city announced it would open two additional warming centres by 5 p.m.
Environment Canada has maintained an orange-level winter storm alert for the area, with a climatologist warning the GTA is in for a long winter, stating, "Count those snowflakes, we're not finished yet." The alert is expected to remain in effect even after the snow stops due to blowing snow and continued hazardous conditions.
Looking Ahead
The combination of the severe collision and the intense winter weather promises a difficult and extended afternoon and evening commute for Toronto residents. Officials are asking for patience, noting that snow response operations take significant time. Drivers are strongly advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, to allow emergency crews and plows to do their work safely and efficiently.
