Summary of Events

In a chaotic morning commute marred by hazardous weather, the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) has reopened after being shut down for several hours due to a multi-vehicle accident in Toronto. The incident occurred near Eastern Avenue shortly before 5:30 a.m., coinciding with a sudden blast of wintry conditions that blanketed the city in snow.

Investigation and Cause

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, but authorities suspect that treacherous road conditions caused by the snow may have played a significant role. Paramedics reported that at least one individual was transported to a trauma center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Traffic Standstill and Further Accidents

Traffic on the southbound lanes of the DVP came to a standstill all the way up to Don Mills Road, prompting emergency crews to divert cars onto Richmond Street to ease the congestion. Just minutes later, another accident occurred in the eastbound lanes of the Gardiner Expressway near York Street, involving three vehicles though fortunately, no injuries were reported in that collision.

Additional Incidents and Road Closures

In addition to these accidents, a two-car crash was also recorded at Bayview Avenue and Pottery Road, with one person treated for minor injuries at the scene. As safety remains a concern, police have announced that Bayview Avenue is currently closed between Moore Avenue and Rosedale Valley Road due to the ongoing slippery conditions.

Safety Precautions

Constable Ashley Visser urged residents to be extremely cautious if they must travel, advising them to "slow down, pack your patience, and drive with care" in a cautionary message shared via social media.

Weather Advisory

Though a winter weather travel advisory for Toronto has recently been lifted, Environment Canada has warned that additional snowfall accumulations of two to four centimeters could occur by the end of the day, potentially exacerbating the already treacherous road conditions.

Regional Impact

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Sergeant Kerry Schmidt stressed that accidents are being reported throughout the region, including instances of vehicles rolling over and tractor-trailers jackknifing due to the unexpected conditions. Schmidt described the snow as coming down in "very narrow bands," impacting specific areas and causing fluctuating road safety.

Final Advisory

As you head out today, be prepared for rapidly changing conditions wherever you are. With the unpredictable weather continuing, commuters are advised to stay informed and exercise extreme caution on the roads.