A significant winter storm has descended upon the London region, leading to hazardous driving conditions and the implementation of several road closures as of Thursday, January 15, 2026. Residents are waking up to a landscape blanketed in heavy snow, with flurries expected to persist throughout the day.
Ongoing Snowfall and Weather Forecast
CTV London Meteorologist Julie Atchison reports that the area is experiencing continuous snowfall, which began in the early hours of the morning. The snow, which started accumulating significantly around 5:43 AM EST, has created treacherous conditions on roads and highways. As of the 10:42 AM EST update, the flurry activity shows no immediate signs of letting up, prompting officials to take action for public safety.
List of Active Road Closures and Safety Measures
In response to the rapidly deteriorating conditions, local authorities have enacted a series of road closures. While a comprehensive list of all affected streets is being maintained by municipal services, the primary focus is on major thoroughfares and highways where visibility is low and snow accumulation is making travel dangerous. The closures are a preventative measure aimed at reducing the risk of multi-vehicle collisions and allowing snowplows to clear the roads effectively.
Drivers are being strongly advised to avoid any non-essential travel. For those who must venture out, extreme caution is urged. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for winter driving, reduce speeds significantly, maintain a greater following distance, and have a winter safety kit on hand.
Broader Context of the Winter Storm
This London-area snow event is part of a larger system affecting parts of Ontario. Other municipalities, including Kitchener and Cambridge, have also declared official "snow events" in response to the storm. The situation underscores a day of severe winter weather across the province, with other regions reporting similar challenges, from multiple collisions on Montreal's South Shore to blowing snow impacting visibility on Manitoba roads.
The proactive closure of roads in London reflects a broader public safety strategy during extreme weather events. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates from the City of London and local news outlets for the latest information on road status, public transit delays, and when conditions are expected to improve.
