M62 Manchester fire LIVE as lorry blaze sees traffic halted during rush hour

A heavy goods vehicle (HGV) fire on the M62 motorway near Manchester caused significant disruption during the morning rush hour, leading to the temporary closure of lanes and lengthy traffic delays. Emergency services responded promptly to the blaze, halting traffic to manage the situation and ensure safety. Although traffic has since been partially released, lanes 1 and 2 remain closed as firefighters continue to work at the scene, resulting in delays of at least 45 minutes for motorists. The incident occurred on one of the region’s busiest motorways, compounding the usual congestion experienced during peak travel times. National Highways reported substantial queues forming on the approach to the affected stretch, highlighting the impact on commuters and freight transport. The swift response by fire and rescue teams helped prevent further escalation, but the ongoing lane closures continue to affect traffic flow. This disruption underscores the vulnerability of critical transport routes to incidents such as vehicle fires, which can have ripple effects on local and regional travel. The M62 is a vital artery for goods movement across northern England, and prolonged closures can affect supply chains and daily commutes. Authorities are advising drivers to seek alternative routes where possible and remain patient as emergency operations conclude. The cause of the lorry fire has not yet been confirmed, with investigations likely to follow once the scene is secured. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and safety protocols on major highways to minimize the risk of similar events in the future.