Clouds of smoke billow across motorway as vehicle becomes engulfed in flames on M6

Dramatic photos show smoke billowing after a vehicle became engulfed in flames on the M6 motorway. Emergency services were called to the fire between junction 26 for Orrell and junction 27 for Standish at around 5.30pm this evening (July 24). Traffic was held by police while the fire service battled the blaze as rush hour hit with long queues quickly building.

Photos posted online show how thick plumes of black smoke covered the area as the vehicle went up in flames. Two fire engines were called to the crash with crews spending around 40 minutes at the scene. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said there were no reported casualties.

The spokesperson added: “At around 5:30pm this evening (Wednesday, 24th July), firefighters were called to reports of a vehicle fire on the M6 between junctions 26 and 27. “Two fire engines from Wigan[2] fire station quickly arrived at the scene. Colleagues from Greater Manchester Police[3] held traffic while fire crews worked to extinguish the fire and make the area safe.

Crews were at the scene for around 40 minutes.”

Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for further information on the incident.

References

1. ^ GMP officer ‘removed from operational duties’ after Manchester Airport video (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
2. ^ Wigan (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
3. ^ Greater Manchester Police (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)