Traffic disruptions affected commuters across Durham Region Wednesday morning after Highway 401 lanes were closed near Bowmanville due to multiple collisions and flooding on the roadway.
According to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the incident occurred on March 11, 2026, when several crashes were reported along the eastbound lanes of Highway 401 at Holt Road approaching Bowmanville Avenue, just east of Oshawa in the Municipality of Clarington.
The dangerous conditions led authorities to temporarily close all eastbound lanes of the highway while emergency crews responded to the collisions and worked to address water pooling on the roadway.
Police said the situation developed during the early morning commute when heavy rainfall caused water to collect on sections of the highway, making driving conditions hazardous.
The combination of standing water and slippery pavement contributed to numerous collisions being reported in the area, prompting police to shut down the highway lanes to protect motorists and allow emergency services to manage the scene safely.
At approximately 8:38 a.m., authorities were able to reopen one left lane, allowing limited traffic to begin moving through the area.
Shortly before 9 a.m., police announced that Highway 401 had fully reopened approaching Bowmanville Avenue, though drivers were warned that traffic delays would likely continue as congestion cleared from the earlier closure.
Officials confirmed that minor injuries were reported in connection with the collisions, but no serious injuries were announced.
Emergency crews remained in the area for some time to ensure the roadway was safe for motorists and to assist drivers involved in the crashes.
The Highway 401 closure near Bowmanville caused significant disruptions for commuters traveling through Durham Region during the busy morning rush hour.
Highway 401 is one of the busiest highways in North America, and even short closures can quickly lead to traffic backups stretching several kilometres.
Police urged drivers traveling through the area earlier in the morning to plan alternate routes and drive cautiously due to wet road conditions.
Weather conditions across southern Ontario have been unstable in recent days, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms increasing the risk of flooding on roads and highways.
Authorities remind drivers that standing water on roadways can significantly reduce tire traction, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and accidents.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down during wet conditions, maintain safe following distances and avoid driving through large pools of water on the roadway.
While the Highway 401 closure near Bowmanville has now been resolved, motorists traveling through Durham Region are still advised to remain cautious as roads may remain wet and traffic congestion may continue for some time.
Transportation officials continue to monitor weather conditions and roadway safety across the region.
