As a heavy winter storm pelts most of Southern Quebec, more than 20 cars were involved in two accidents that have closed Highway 20 eastbound, southwest of Quebec City.
Provincial police say about 10 people have minor injuries following the two accidents on the TransCanada.
The first collision on Highway 20 eastbound near Saint-Apollinaire involved five trucks and 10 cars, and happened at about 1:30 p.m.
Thirty minutes later and 10 kilometres west, seven cars collided in the second accident.
At least five trucks were involved in one of two multiple-crash accidents on Highway 20, southwest of Quebec City. (Marc-Antoine Lavoie/Quebec City)
Residents in Quebec City are in the midst of a powerful winter storm that could bring up to 50 centimetres by the time it's over.
"We're expecting a difficult commute home. The roads are slippery and the visibility is not good," said Christian Cantin, a spokesperson for Lévis police.
- Roads closed, buses stuck as 1st major snowstorm of season hits Montreal
- Keep track of all the closures and delays with our Storm Centre page
Quebec City will be one of the worst hit areas across the province, according to Environment Canada.
It's starting in Quebec City. Roads are slick. And the winds haven't peaked. Yet. #storm #weather pic.twitter.com/IPjtQE9m19
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@susancbcquebec
"Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow," a warning issued by the weather agency says.
There is also a warning for the Charlevoix area, with the same amount of snow expected.
"Also, strong to high easterly winds will cause widespread blowing snow," the warning says.
The snow fall was already in full force late Tuesday late morning in Quebec City. (Marc-Antoine Lavoie/Radio-Canada)
The Eastern Townships will be affected by a storm passing over the Great Lakes and the effects are expected to last until Thursday.
Between 15 and 25 centimetres will fall over the area Wednesday evening.
