Severe winter weather has forced the closure of Highway 11 in both directions between Cochrane and Hearst as of the morning of April 3, 2026. The route is currently shut down due to hazardous driving conditions, affecting travel across the region.
According to Ontario 511, the provincial transportation information service, this closure is part of a series of shutdowns affecting northern Ontario, including Highway 17, Highway 101, and Highway 129. Drivers are reporting difficult travel conditions due to significant snowfall and poor visibility.
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the Hearst, Kapuskasing, and Smooth Rock Falls region. Total snowfall is expected to reach between 15 and 30 centimetres, with peak rates of 3 to 4 centimetres per hour. As of 9:00 a.m. on April 3, temperatures in the area were recorded at -5.8 C, with wind chill values near -12 due to north-northeast winds gusting up to 28 kilometres per hour.
The weather is expected to remain unsettled throughout the weekend. Forecasters are tracking a second weather system, known as a Colorado low, that is expected to reach the area by late Saturday afternoon. This system may bring additional snowfall to the region.
Transportation authorities are urging motorists to avoid non-essential travel while crews manage the impact of the storm. Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor 511on.ca and the Environment Canada website for real-time updates on road conditions and weather forecasts.
