Multiple collisions on Quebec Highway, cow escapes

Thursday, February 15, 2018, 3:12 PM - Pea-soup fog contributed to multiple collisions on Highway 40 in the Mauricie area, forcing a closure of the eastbound highway at kilometre 174 for several hours Thursday morning.

At least 15 vehicles were involved in the collisions, though Sûreté du Québec says there were no serious injuries.

One incident, involved a truck, resulted in the release of a cow, which strolled onto the highway briefly before being recaptured.

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Fog advisories were in effect for much of the region Thursday morning, though the fog began to dissipate by the late morning. But freezing rain was still expected for part of the day, making slippery roads more likely.

Smog warnings were also in effect for much of the St. Lawrence region, including Montreal.

"High concentrations of pollutants will persist until this evening," Environment Canada says. "Smog especially affects asthmatic children and people with respiratory ailments or heart disease. It is therefore recommended that these individuals avoid intense physical activity outdoors until the smog warning is lifted."

With files from MeteoMedia.

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