A vehicle fire on the M6 motorway near Lancaster resulted in major traffic disruptions and the closure of the motorway for several hours on Friday, February 28, 2025. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the blaze, which caused extensive tailbacks and significant delays for motorists.
The incident was first reported around 1:40 PM, with the fire occurring between Junction 34 (Lancaster) and Junction 35 (Carnforth). Police and firefighters worked diligently to address the situation, which was serious enough to lead to the immediate closure of the motorway in both directions.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police confirmed, "We anticipate the motorway will be closed for some time whilst we assess the situation." This closure was not taken lightly, as authorities were focused on ensuring the safety of those involved.
According to reports from National Highways, the M6 remained closed southbound between Junction 36 (Kirkby) and Junction 34 (Lancaster). A spokesman explained, “This incident is no longer expected to be protracted, and we're hoping to be able to fully re-open the road within the next hour.”
Despite the hope for quick resolution, traffic was significantly affected, with delays reaching up to 70 minutes at one point. Drivers were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid the congestion, with the A6 being recommended as one option.
By approximately 2:40 PM, the situation began to improve for some travelers. Reports indicated all lanes had reopened on the northbound carriageway. Still, the southbound side remained blocked, leaving many drivers stranded and frustrated as they awaited updates.
The emergency response was efficient but underscored the importance of driver awareness during such incidents. A spokesman for National Highways reiterated the necessity for people to monitor travel updates and be prepared for delays during peak traffic hours.
Overall, the events served as a stark reminder of the potential hazards on the roads and the quick responses required from emergency services. Officials continue to encourage motorists to stay informed and patient during such unexpected disruptions.
Anyone with information or video footage of the fire is encouraged to contact authorities, reportedly prompting them to gather any evidence from witnesses to assess the cause fully. It’s these partnerships with the public, alongside their rigorous response strategies, which help keep roads safer for everyone.
Further updates from local authorities are expected as they continue to monitor the situation and work to minimize inconvenience for travelers. Observers are advised to remain vigilant and heed road signs and guidance from local law enforcement as they navigate the surrounding area.