Windstorm causes whiteout conditions, several roads closed during morning commute

A windstorm battered much of Ottawa and eastern Ontario on Monday morning causing whiteout conditions which forcing several roads to close.

Whiteout conditions are being reported all across southern and eastern Ontario due to a powerful wind storm. According to Environment Canada, wind speeds reached 79 km/h at the Ottawa airport.

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A blowing snow advisory is in effect. According to Environment Canada, flurries and strong west to northwest winds with gusts of 60 to 80 km/h can be expected Monday.

Conditions on the roads caused a pile-up on County Road 17 just east of the Ottawa. According to the OPP, eight people were sent to hospital as a result of the crash.

The department says any fresh snow could be whipped up by the winds creating areas of reduced visibility, particularly in exposed areas.

On Highway 400 near Barrie over 70 vehicles were involved in a pile up due to the snowy and windy conditions.

WATCH: OPP say over 70 vehicles involved in pile-up on Hwy. 400 near Barrie

1:05 OPP say over 70 vehicles involved in pile-up on Hwy. 400 near Barrie