Hazardous winter weather forced a major shutdown of Highway 17 on Saturday, with both directions closed for several hours after multiple collisions near the Ontario–Manitoba border.
The Ontario Provincial Police first announced the closure just before 7 a.m., citing whiteout conditions, blowing snow, icy pavement, and several crashes involving transport trucks along the westbound lanes from Kenora to the provincial boundary. No serious injuries were reported, but officers expected a lengthy closure to clear damaged vehicles.
Police continue to urge drivers to be cautious, particularly around Sherwood Lake, where tow crews were still removing several semis from the ditch around midday. Officers remained at the scene to manage traffic as conditions gradually improved.