A serious crash on the M6 in Lancashire has caused major disruption after a lorry jackknifed and spilled fuel across the carriageway. The incident forced authorities to shut the motorway in both directions between Junction 34 near Lancaster and Junction 35 at Carnforth, triggering long queues and significant delays for drivers across the region.
Emergency services remain at the scene as recovery operations continue, with officials warning that the closure could last several hours due to the complexity of clearing the damaged vehicle and cleaning up fuel from the road surface.
M6 Traffic Update
Traffic on the M6 remains heavily affected following a collision near Junction 34 and Junction 35. National Highways and Lancashire Police have confirmed that the motorway closure is still in place as recovery teams work to clear the scene safely.
Motorists are experiencing delays in both directions, with congestion building across key routes connecting Lancaster, Carnforth and surrounding areas.
M6 Traffic Update: What Happened?
The disruption began after a lorry jackknifed on the M6 between Junction 35 (Carnforth) and Junction 34 (Lancaster). The impact caused a fuel spill on the carriageway, increasing the risk and forcing an immediate emergency response.
Police and National Highways quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and manage traffic. Initial reports indicate that one person suffered minor injuries, although authorities continue to assess the situation.
M6 Traffic Update: Motorway Closure Between Junctions 34 & 35
Authorities closed the M6 in both directions between Junction 34 and Junction 35 shortly after the crash.
The closure affects a key stretch of the motorway used by drivers travelling between the Lake District, Lancaster and the southern parts of Lancashire. Emergency teams have also held traffic in nearby sections while allowing trapped vehicles to pass safely under supervision.
M6 Traffic Update: Delays
Severe delays have built up on both sides of the motorway.
Southbound traffic has been the worst affected, with queues stretching several miles back past Junction 35. Drivers have faced delays of up to an hour or more during peak congestion.
Northbound traffic initially stopped near the crash site but has since partially reopened, easing pressure slightly. However, residual delays continue as traffic clears slowly.
M6 Traffic Update: Closed Roads
The M6 remains closed between:
- Junction 34 (Lancaster)
- Junction 35 (Carnforth)
Additional disruption has spread to nearby routes as drivers attempt to avoid the closure. Local roads around Lancaster and Carnforth are also experiencing heavy congestion due to diverted traffic.
M6 Traffic Update: Diversion Routes
Motorists are being diverted off the motorway onto surrounding A-roads. Key affected routes include:
- A6 through Carnforth
- Lancaster Road
- Scotland Road
Authorities have urged drivers to avoid the area completely, where possible and follow official diversion signage to prevent further congestion in residential and local traffic zones.
M6 Traffic Update: When Will Traffic Reopen?
Officials have warned that the affected stretch of the M6 will remain closed for several hours.
The recovery process involves removing the jackknifed lorry, clearing fuel contamination and conducting safety checks before reopening. National Highways has not provided an exact reopening time but says work is ongoing to restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
M6 Traffic Update: What Drivers Should Know?
Drivers are advised to expect continued delays throughout the day. Authorities recommend:
- Avoiding the M6 between Junctions 34 and 35
- Using alternative routes where possible
- Allowing extra travel time for journeys in the region
- Checking live traffic updates before travelling
Officials continue to monitor the situation and have warned that conditions may change as recovery work progresses.
M6 Traffic Update: Helpline Numbers
For real-time traffic updates and road safety information, drivers can contact:
- National Highways: 0300 123 5000
- Lancashire Police (non-emergency): 101
Emergency services continue to urge the public to avoid the area and cooperate with diversion instructions while recovery operations remain underway.
