A diesel fuel spill on Tuesday morning forced the shutdown of the northbound ramp to Highway 13 and created a backup on westbound Highway 20 in Montreal. The incident occurred during the morning commute, prompting immediate closure of the ramp that connects to Highway 13 northbound. As a result, traffic moving west on Highway 20 was forced to slow or stop, leading to a notable queue of vehicles.
The spill itself was the direct cause of the disruption, with diesel leaking onto the roadway and making the ramp unsafe for use. Officials responded by sealing off the affected ramp, preventing any vehicles from accessing Highway 13 in the northbound direction until the spill could be addressed. The blockage on Highway 20 caused drivers to experience delays as the flow of traffic was impeded.
Highway 20 serves as a principal commuter artery across the city, carrying a high volume of traffic each day. Incidents such as fuel spills are known to trigger lane closures and significant delays on this route, affecting both local residents and through‑traffic. While the exact duration of the closure was not disclosed, the event underscores the vulnerability of busy urban highways to unexpected hazards.
Motorists traveling westbound were left with limited options while the spill was being managed, and the closure of the northbound ramp to Highway 13 added to the congestion. The incident highlights the importance of rapid response to hazardous material releases on major roadways to minimize impact on the commuting public.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and will reopen the ramp once it is deemed safe. In the meantime, drivers are advised to remain alert to signage and any further traffic advisories related to the spill.