OPP report 'at least' 17 collisions as freezing rain warning remains in effect
Region under a freezing rain warning, making roads treacherous
Ontario Provincial Police say there's been "at least" 17 reported vehicle collisions since early Wednesday morning, as drivers cope with icy road conditions.
"That number I'm sure may increase before the end of the day," said OPP Sgt. Laura Brown, who said no major injuries have been reported.
A freezing rain warning remains in effect for London, Ont., and the surrounding area, according to Environment Canada.
OPP are warning drivers to leave plenty of following distance between cars, and to plan for a slow drive.
Schools shuttered
Local school boards, including the Thames Valley District School Board and London District Catholic School Board, have decided to close schools and administration buildings for the day because of weather conditions.
This follows the cancellation of school bus service for London and the surrounding area.
Classes and campus events at Western University are also cancelled.
Public programs
London community centres are open and most recreation programs are running this morning and afternoon, except for Spectrum programs run out of schools and family centres, according to the city of London.
The Storybook Gardens Skate Trail is closed and will reopen Thursday at 2 p.m.
The city recommends calling customer service at 519-661-5575 to ensure programs are running.
Drivers and pedestrians are being cautioned as freezing rain is blanketing much of southwestern Ontario Wednesday morning.
"If you have to be on the roads, allow for a lot more time," said Marie-eve Giguere, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada.
"At the onset of precipitation, it's always when people get surprised. The road is bare and it looks like rain, but in fact it's freezing rain and will create black ice on the roads."
Salt trucks have been out across the city and on area highways early Wednesday morning.
Environment Canada says the freezing rain is expected to persist for several hours. Downed power lines and broken tree branches are possible.
A number of flights at the London International Airport have been cancelled. Travellers can check the airport website for updated information.