Traffic came to a halt this morning on the M62 motorway after an incident. The westbound side was closed near Rochdale due to a crash between junction 22 for Denshaw and junction 21 for Rochdale, as reported by National Highways. The authorities confirmed that it was a single vehicle collision.
National Highways announced on X that the #M62 westbound between J22 (Denshaw) and J21 (Rochdale) was blocked because of the crash and a spillage that affected all lanes. The situation caused delays and congestion in the area.
Following the cleanup and treatment of the fuel spillage, the M62 westbound between J22 and J21 has reopened. However, traffic congestion persists between J24 and J22, with normal conditions not expected until later in the afternoon.
Social media users shared their experiences, with some reporting standstill traffic and advising others to avoid certain routes due to gridlock. National Highways also reported a separate incident on the M6 northbound, where three lanes were closed due to a multi-vehicle collision near Warrington, causing additional delays.
Football fans expressed concerns about road closures affecting kick-off times for games. Some supporters faced delays, while others warned fellow fans to be cautious about their travel routes. A Manchester United Under-18s game against Leeds was delayed due to traffic issues caused by road closures on the M62.
Drivers approaching the M62 westbound closure between J22 and J21 were advised of at least a 60-minute delay, with a solid square diversion route suggested. National Highways mentioned that cleanup efforts were underway, but no estimated time for completion was provided.
Vehicles within the closure were being directed past the scene via the hard shoulder, as a fuel spillage had affected all three lanes of the carriageway. Cleanup crews were dispatched to address the spillage and clear the lanes for traffic flow.