Rush hour traffic came to a halt as a major UK motorway had to be shut down due to an overturned lorry igniting into flames.
The incident occurred on the M6 northbound in Cumbria, between the J36 Crooklands Interchange and the J39 Shap Interchange, leading to a complete closure of the affected stretch. The emergency was initially reported around 5.20 am on the northbound carriageway between junctions 36 and 38, resulting in the closure of all three lanes on the northbound side and two lanes on the southbound side.
Efforts are underway to clear the wreckage and debris from the fire, with the presence of Cumbria Fire & Rescue, Cumbria Police, National Highways Traffic Officers, and contractors at the site.
National Highways has now confirmed the full reopening of the M6 northbound between J36 for Kirby Lonsdale and J38 for Tebay, expressing gratitude towards drivers for their patience during the prolonged closure.
The closure of the M6 spans over a 16-mile stretch of the motorway, causing significant delays and congestion for drivers as diversions are put in place to manage the aftermath of the incident.
While there is no specific timeline for the reopening of the carriageway, National Highways has stated that the closure will persist for a considerable period due to the need for emergency resurfacing.
National Highways has provided details on the closure, indicating that traffic can re-join the M6 at J38, although the official diversion route directs traffic back onto the motorway at J39, owing to the overturned and fire-engulfed lorry.
Recovery work, resurfacing activities, and barrier repairs are currently ongoing at the site, with National Highways staff actively engaged in managing the situation.