Traffic woes persist on GTA highways after heavy rain wreaked havoc on rush hour commute

Early morning commuters are experiencing a wet, grey morning that will clear up later in the day.

Problems persist on GTA highways this morning after heavy rain led to collisions and flooding along the major routes.

“The drive this morning continues to be an absolute mess,” CP24 Traffic Specialist Meital Sperling said at around 10 a.m., as more issues stack up.

Multiple collisions were reported during the morning rush hour along Highway 401, the Don Valley Parkway, Highway 400, and Highway 404.

Flooding has also shut down north and southbound Bayview Avenue at Evergreen Brick Works.

• Your hourly and 7-day forecast on our CP24.com weather hub

Traffic in the eastbound Hwy. 401 express lanes has been at a standstill near Yonge Street for hours after a truck rollover closed multiple lanes, Sperling said, noting that the vehicle has now been removed from the highway.

Some flooding was also reported on eastbound Hwy. 401 at Leslie Street.

More problems have popped up on Hwy. 401 near Allen Road, where a collision has blocked two eastbound express lanes in the area.

In the westbound lanes of the 401, a jack-knifed tractor-trailer is blocking lanes near James Snow Parkway.

Another crash on the westbound 401 ramp to southbound Hwy. 427 has snarled traffic in that area, Sperling said.

A spokesperson for Toronto police said the weather created “dangerous” conditions for drivers this morning.

“Although I do not have specific numbers, it does appear that the weather is causing dangerous driving conditions and increased issues,” they said.

A special weather statement remains in effect for Toronto with strong winds, heavy rain, and thunderstorms possible early this morning.

CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter said the rain is expected to ease up later this morning.

“As that tapers, we’ll continue with the chance of showers through early afternoon with some evening clearing,” Coulter said Thursday, adding that gusty winds of up to 60 km/h will persist throughout the day.