M6 lorry fire closes motorway causing major delays

A lorry fire on the M6 motorway in Cheshire caused major disruption on Friday morning, August 21, 2026, closing the northbound carriageway between Junctions 18 and 19 and creating severe delays for motorists. Emergency crews were called to the scene at approximately 7:35 a.m. to battle the heavy goods vehicle fire, which initially forced closures in both directions. While the southbound carriageway has since reopened, the northbound side remains shut as firefighters continue their work, leading to significant tailbacks.

The incident, close to Knutsford Services, prompted a large emergency response. Crews from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, including firefighters from Middlewich, Northwich, and Lymm, attended the scene to tackle what was described as a large vehicle fire. A Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson stated that firefighters were dealing with the incident and warned that major disruption was expected, urging motorists to avoid the stretch of motorway and use alternative routes.

Traffic built rapidly behind the closure, with northbound queues stretching back past Junction 17 at Sandbach. National Highways reported delays of up to 100 minutes on the approach...