Three-Car Collision Closes M62 Motorway Near Manchester

A serious collision involving three vehicles has led to the closure of the M62 motorway near Rochdale and Heywood this evening, with emergency services responding and traffic held in both directions.

M62 J19 Heywood/Middleton Traffic at stand still | MTN

Police, fire crews and National Highways officers were at the scene following the crash in the westbound carriageway between junction 20 (Rochdale) and junction 19 (Heywood). Two air ambulances was also seen landing nearby as part of the emergency response, although authorities have not yet confirmed the extent of any injuries. Eyewitnesses noted that the collision caused significant disruption, with vehicles backed up for miles in both directions and all traffic being brought to a standstill for a period. Drivers in the area were warned to expect delays of up to an hour or more and to consider alternative routes if possible. National Highways confirmed that the motorway was closed fully westbound, with the eastbound carriageway also significantly affected by congestion and delays. A solid circle diversion route was put in place for drivers travelling west. At the time of publishing, investigations into the cause of the collision were ongoing. The North West Motorway Police Group and traffic officers were expected to remain on site as accident analysis continued.

serious' collision on the M62 Westbound near Rochdale (Image: ASP)

Motorists planning travel through the area are urged to check live traffic updates and consider postponing journeys until the motorway fully reopens. Often in the immediate aftermath of a serious motorway collision, official casualty details aren’t available until police formally confirm them — especially if people were taken to hospital. National Highways and North West Motorway Police Group are expected to provide an update once their investigation and scene work are complete. Manchester Today will continue to update this story as soon as further official information is released. Follow Manchester Today on Facebook, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to Newsdesk@ManchesterToday.org.uk