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Winter weather causes several collisions, closures in the London area Friday

The OPP reported several collisions in the London are Friday morning, forcing the closure of several sections of Hwy 401 and 402. (OPP Twitter)

It was a challenging commute for drivers in the London area Friday morning as the OPP reported several collisions and lane closures on local highways.

The westbound Highway 402 was reduced to one lane after a transport truck slid into the ditch. Also on Highway 402, both the eastbound and westbound lanes were closed at Sexton Road.

There was a multi-vehicle collision on the westbound Highway 401 near Highbury Avenue.

OPP Sgt. Dave Rektor says he saw far too many vehicles travelling too fast during poor conditions.

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“March came in like a lion, lots of heavy snow. As a result, he roads were icy and snow-packed this morning,” said Rektor, who adds that driving in these conditions isn’t rocket science.

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“We’re encouraging people to slow down and drive slow. There’s no secret to winter driving.”

Also along the 401, the westbound on ramp at Elgin Road was closed for several hours.

Westbound lanes of Southdale Road are closed between Boler Road and Wickerson Road due to a collision.

Rektor says drivers need to be aware of emergency crews during these conditions.

“Driving slow serves so many good purposes during these winter storms. First of all emergency crews are working at the side of the road. The pullover law is in effect for the safety,” said Rektor.

“The same thing goes for the snow removal vehicles and the salting trucks. Don’t pass them, they are in front of you for a very good reason.”

Rektor says the snow and strong winds created very slippery conditions, particularly along the 402 near Komoka and Strathroy.

Despite the snow, all school buses in the region started on time.

Environment Canada says the London area got just over 10 centimetres of snow overnight Thursday.

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