Live updates: m62 crash closes motorway near Rochdale

Introduction — Why the m62 crash matters

The reported m62 crash has led to a full closure of the motorway near Rochdale, causing significant disruption on a key trans-Pennine route. Incidents on the M62 can affect long-distance freight, local commuters and emergency access across West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester, so clear information and timely updates are essential for drivers and local communities.

Main body — What is known

Location and traffic status

National Highways has described the collision as “very serious” and confirmed that the westbound carriageway is completely closed. Other reports indicate the motorway has been shut both ways following the incident. Live updates place the main area of disruption between junction 20 (Rochdale) and junction 19 (Heywood), with reports of a pile-up on the eastbound carriageway in that section.

Nature of the collision and emergency response

Multiple sources, including on-scene video reporting, describe a severe impact in which a van was observed on top of a car. Emergency services are attending the scene and remain engaged in ongoing response activity. Authorities have not released additional verified details such as the number of vehicles involved or any injuries; those confirmations will come from official emergency and police briefings.

Traffic management

With the motorway closed both ways in the affected area, traffic is being held on the M62 and surrounding routes are likely to experience congestion. National Highways and local agencies typically coordinate diversions and traffic management in such situations; drivers should expect delays on alternative routes and allow extra travel time.

Conclusion — Implications and advice for readers

The m62 crash near Rochdale represents a major disruption on a strategic motorway. Motorists planning journeys across the area should avoid the M62 between J19 and J20 where possible, seek alternative routes and monitor official sources for live traffic updates from National Highways, police and local travel services. Commuters and freight operators should prepare for continued delays while emergency services deal with the scene and further official information is released.