M6, M60, M62 Traffic Update: Multiple incidents across major motorways in Greater Manchester caused severe disruption during Wednesday morning’s rush hour, leaving drivers stuck in long queues.
An overturned lorry on the M6 near Warrington and a separate police incident on the M60 created a major traffic backlog, with knock-on delays spreading to the M62.
Authorities issued urgent advisories for motorists to avoid affected areas and use diversion routes. While some sections have reopened, congestion continues to affect key routes across the region.
M6, M60, M62 Traffic Update
M6 Traffic: Overturned Lorry Causes Severe Delays
The most significant disruption was reported on the M6 near the Thelwall Viaduct, close to Warrington. An overturned lorry led to lane closures between junction 21A at Croft Interchange and junction 21 at Manchester Road in Woolston.
Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported “severe delays” as emergency services responded to the crash.
Traffic was initially stopped completely from around 6 AM, leading to long queues stretching back to junction 24 near Ashton-in-Makerfield. Although two lanes were later reopened, two lanes remain closed, causing continued congestion.
M62 Traffic: Delays Spill Over From M6 Incident
The M62 also experienced heavy delays due to its connection with the M6 at junction 10. Traffic heading towards the M6 slowed significantly as congestion spread across the interchange. Drivers reported extended travel times and slow-moving queues on approach routes.
The situation highlighted how a single major incident can disrupt multiple motorways simultaneously. Authorities warned that delays on the M62 would persist until the M6 is fully cleared.
M60 Traffic: Police Incident Causes Lane Closures
A separate incident on the M60 anticlockwise further worsened traffic conditions in Greater Manchester. Two lanes were closed between junction 11 at Eccles and junction 10 near the Trafford Centre at Barton Bridge.
Police were called to the scene over concerns for a person’s welfare, leading to traffic restrictions. Only one lane remained open for a period, causing long queues stretching back to junction 17 near Prestwich and Whitefield. The M61 was also affected, with delays reported on routes leading toward the M60.
M6, M60, M62 Traffic Update: Routes Diversion Alternative Routes in Place
Drivers were advised to avoid the affected motorways and follow diversion routes where possible. Traffic was redirected onto nearby A-roads and connecting motorways, including the M61. Diversion signs were placed to guide motorists safely around the affected areas.
However, local roads also experienced increased congestion due to diverted traffic. Authorities urged drivers to check live updates before travelling and plan alternative routes.
M6, M60, M62 Traffic Update Current Situation: Partial Reopening
The M60 at Barton Bridge has now reopened after earlier closures, offering some relief to commuters. However, traffic remains slow as vehicles clear the backlog built during the incident.
On the M6, lane closures are still in place as recovery work continues to remove the overturned lorry. Delays are expected to continue throughout the day as traffic gradually returns to normal. Motorists are still experiencing stop-start conditions across affected routes.
M6, M60, M62 Traffic Update: Emergency Response & Ongoing Investigation
Emergency services, including police and highways teams, responded quickly to both incidents. Crews worked to secure the scene, manage traffic flow, and ensure public safety.
Recovery operations are ongoing to fully clear the M6 and restore normal conditions. Authorities are also investigating the circumstances surrounding both incidents. Officials remain on-site to monitor traffic and prevent further disruption.
M6, M60, M62 traffic Update: Advice for Drivers Amid Ongoing Disruption
- Motorists have been advised to remain cautious and allow extra travel time.
- Checking live traffic updates can help drivers avoid the worst-affected areas.
- Authorities recommend avoiding unnecessary travel on the M6, M62, and M60 until conditions improve.
- Following diversion routes and road signs can help reduce congestion and delays.
- Drivers are reminded to stay alert and prioritise safety while travelling.
