Highway 144 partially reopens with alternating traffic after washout

Crews conducting emergency repairs on Highway 144 following a washed out culvert on Nov. 22, 2025. (Northern Ontario CLOSED Roads ONLY/Facebook)

A significant portion of Highway 144 in northeastern Ontario remains partially closed due to a washed-out culvert.

The closure stretches from Highway 101 near Timmins to the intersection with Highway 560 near Gogama.

At about 2:15 p.m., Ontario Provincial Police announced the road was no longer fully closed. The southbound lanes remain closed, while the northbound lanes have opened to accommodate traffic from both directions.

The partial reopening comes as crews continue to address the emergency roadwork.

The OPP is advising caution for motorists now able to use the route.

“The public is advised to expect delays and follow directions on scene,” said police in their update.

According to Ontario’s 511 Traveller Information Service, repair crews have been on site for some time but were delayed in their efforts.

Speaking with CTV News on Saturday morning, Ministry of Transportation officials said that the repair crews are waiting for a major component to complete the repairs on Saturday afternoon.

Initial closure

OPP announced the initial full closure due to “emergency road repairs” on social media shortly before 8:30 a.m.

“Please plan to use alternate routes,” OPP initially said.

There is no estimated time for when the highway will fully reopen and resume normal traffic flow and no detours have been listed by police or the ministry.

“Updates to follow,” said OPP in their initial post.

For up-to-date road and travel information, visit 511on.ca or call 511.