Highway 417 near Vankleek Hill is closed in both directions after asphalt lifted on the roadway, according to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The closure, reported Tuesday evening, affects traffic between exits 27 and 32, approximately 70 kilometers east of Ottawa.
Asphalt lifting creates hazardous conditions
The OPP said the asphalt buckled and lifted due to extreme heat and possible pavement expansion, creating uneven surfaces and dangerous driving conditions. No injuries or vehicle damage have been reported. Motorists are being diverted onto local roads, and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has been dispatched to assess the damage and begin repairs.
“The road surface became unstable, and for safety reasons we had to close the highway until engineers can evaluate the situation,” said OPP Constable Michael Mahon. “We urge drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes.”
Heat wave contributes to pavement failure
The closure comes during a heat wave that has seen temperatures in eastern Ontario reach over 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values exceeding 40. Such conditions can cause asphalt to soften and expand, leading to buckling or lifting—a phenomenon known as “pavement blowup.”
MTO crews are working to cool and repair the affected section. No timeline for reopening has been provided, but officials say they are prioritizing the fix to minimize disruption. The OPP advises checking Ontario 511 for real-time updates on the closure and detours.
