M6 Closed: Real-time Updates On Crash And Traffic Delays

Felix Dubois

4 min read

Post on May 25, 2025

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Location and Severity of the M6 Closure

The M6 motorway is currently closed southbound between junctions 16 (Crewe) and 17 (Sandbach) due to a serious multi-vehicle crash. This section of the M6, near Stoke-on-Trent, is experiencing complete standstill traffic.

• Type of Incident: A multi-vehicle collision involving at least three cars and a lorry.
• Severity: Emergency services are on the scene. Initial reports suggest multiple injuries, although the exact number and severity of casualties are still being assessed. The extent of the damage to the vehicles is significant.
• Affected Lanes and Carriageways: The southbound carriageway is completely closed. Traffic is heavily congested on the northbound carriageway due to onlookers and emergency vehicle movements.
• Geographic Keywords: M6 southbound closure near Stoke-on-Trent, affecting traffic towards Birmingham.

Current Traffic Conditions and Delays

Real-time traffic data from Highways England and Google Maps indicate extremely heavy congestion and significant delays on surrounding routes. Motorists approaching the affected area are experiencing delays of at least two hours.

• Traffic Conditions: Southbound traffic is at a complete standstill between junctions 16 and 17. Northbound traffic is experiencing heavy congestion due to the incident and onlookers.
• Estimated Delays: Delays are currently estimated at 120+ minutes for southbound traffic and 60 minutes for northbound traffic. These times are subject to change.
• Alternative Routes: Highways England advises using the A500 and A53 as potential diversion routes, although these are also expected to experience increased traffic. Navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze are recommending alternative routes. However, be aware that these routes may also experience significant delays.
• Diversion Route Delays: Expect significant delays on any alternative routes, as traffic is being diverted onto already busy roads.

Official Statements and Expected Reopening Time

Highways England has issued a statement confirming the closure and advising motorists to avoid the area if possible. The police are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.

• Official Statement: "The M6 southbound is currently closed between junctions 16 and 17 due to a serious multi-vehicle collision. Emergency services are on the scene, and the road is expected to remain closed for several hours. Motorists are urged to seek alternative routes." - Highways England spokesperson.
• Estimated Reopening Time: At this time, Highways England estimates the M6 will reopen around 18:00, however, this is subject to change depending on the ongoing investigation and clearance efforts. Further updates will be posted on their website and social media channels.
• Emergency Services Response: Multiple ambulance crews, fire services, and police are currently at the scene providing medical assistance and managing traffic.
• Official Social Media: Follow @HighwaysEngland on Twitter for live updates.

Advice for Motorists

If you are planning to travel on the M6 today, please check live traffic updates before you set off. Avoid the area if possible and consider alternative routes.

• Advice for Approaching Drivers: Avoid the M6 between junctions 16 and 17 southbound. Use alternative routes and check traffic apps before traveling.
• Safety Precautions: Exercise caution when driving near emergency vehicles. Be aware of increased traffic and reduced visibility.
• Accident/Traffic Involvement: If involved in an accident or stuck in traffic for an extended period, call emergency services immediately.
• Live Traffic Cameras: Check live traffic cameras on the Highways England website for real-time views of the incident and traffic conditions.
• Useful Links: Check the Highways England website and your preferred navigation app for the latest traffic information.

Conclusion

This article provided real-time updates on the M6 closure caused by a serious multi-vehicle crash. We detailed the location, severity, current traffic conditions, and official statements, offering crucial advice to help motorists navigate this significant disruption. Remember to always check for the latest updates before traveling on the M6 motorway, and be prepared for potential delays. For the latest updates on the M6 closure and other traffic delays, regularly check this page for real-time information and stay updated on the M6 traffic situation. Bookmark this page for continuous M6 motorway updates.