(AURORA, ON) – Highway 11 has reopened in both directions between Orillia and Huntsville after a significant weather event stranded hundreds of vehicles and their drivers.
Crews have been working tirelessly in plowing snow, assisting motorists and responding to emergency calls for service throughout the affected area. Reports of vehicle occupants being stranded for hours in their vehicles and residents in their homes without power resulted in challenging times for many people.
Many local residents stepped in to assist stranded motorists by providing food, water and supplies and transportation to local warming centres via snowmobiles and off-road vehicles.
Traffic is now moving throughout the region, although the on- and off-ramps of Luigi Road remain closed at this time due to snow accumulation. All other on- and off-ramps have reopened.
Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to work collaboratively with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, road maintenance contractors and operators of snow removal equipment as they monitor and prepare for potential future weather events throughout the province.
The OPP want to remind motorists to ensure they are prepared for any situation by driving appropriately for the road and weather conditions. Remember to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, ensure sufficient fuel/battery level with reserve, and plan ahead by monitoring local media reports. Check 511on.ca for updated road conditions.
The OPP want to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding through this challenging time.
