Huge delays after crashes on M6 and M61 as drivers warned about flooding - latest updates

Drivers are being warned to expect long delays ahead of rush hour after crashes on two motorways near Manchester, while there is 'localised flooding' in the region. Multiple lanes have been closed on the M61 northbound near Bolton following a 'multi-vehicle' crash.

The crash has taken place near junction six of the M61, at Horwich. In a post on Twitter at 3.30pm today (August 22), a Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) spokesperson said: "M61 northbound junction six (Horwich) - multi vehicle road traffic collision.

"Lanes are closed and traffic is moving slowly past the incident. If you're planning on heading this way, you may wish to consider an alternative route."

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Meanwhile, drivers heading south from Greater Manchester on the M6 are facing long delays of around 30 minutes this afternoon. Officers are dealing with a crash between junctions 19 for Knutsford and 18 for Middlewich, in Cheshire.

Two lanes were closed off following the smash, leading to seven-mile queues approaching the scene. A spokesperson for National Highways said: "Two lanes of four are currently closed on the M6 southbound between J19 - J18 following a collision.

"Traffic Officers are at the location and recovery agents are en-route. There are approx. 30 minute delays with seven miles of congestion on the approach."

It comes as heavy rain has affected Greater Manchester this afternoon, with more wet weather forecast for this evening. Further details about the two collisions are yet to be confirmed.

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One lane remains closed on the M6