**Lorry Crash Causes Chaos on M6 Viaduct: Emergency Response Efforts Underway**
A major emergency incident has unfolded on the M6 motorway following a lorry crash off Thelwall Viaduct, plummeting onto the embankment below. The incident, which occurred between junctions 21 for the A57 Manchester Road at Woolston and 20 for the M56 at Lymm, has prompted a swift response from emergency services to manage the aftermath.
Cheshire Police has described the collision as a ‘serious’ one, necessitating the closure of all northbound traffic from approximately 7 pm. The driver of the lorry involved in the crash is reported to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries, offering a small silver lining amidst the chaos that has unfolded on the busy motorway.
## Traffic Disruption and Emergency Response
Trapped traffic on the M6 has been gradually released, with one lane now open for movement while the remaining three lanes remain closed. To facilitate the flow of vehicles amidst the ongoing incident, a diversion route has been established. Motorists are advised to follow the hollow diamond symbol along the A50 Knutsford Lane into Knutsford and onto the A57 Manchester Road to navigate around the affected area.
Cheshire Police has issued a plea to the public, cautioning them about the ongoing lane closures on the M6 northbound at Thelwall Viaduct. The closures are expected to persist for an extended duration, prompting motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the congestion and delays that are likely to ensue.
## Response from Emergency Services
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has been actively involved in the response efforts, dispatching five fire engines from various stations including Warrington, Lymm, Middlewich, Chester, and Powey Lane to the scene. In addition, a rescue boat from Warrington Fire Station and an aerial appliance from Lymm Fire Station have been deployed to aid in the operation.
Upon arrival at the site of the incident, firefighters encountered a harrowing scene where a heavy goods vehicle had veered off the carriageway and overturned on an embankment, falling approximately 60 meters. Utilizing technical rescue equipment, the firefighting teams were able to access the casualty and transfer them into the care of awaiting paramedics.
Efforts to contain a leak of around 1,000 liters of bio-diesel from the fuel tanks of the overturned vehicle have been underway, with crews employing bunding techniques to prevent further environmental damage. As the operational activities draw to a close, the scene is being handed over to partner agencies for continued management and assessment.
## Traffic Management and Future Expectations
National Highways has provided updates on the traffic situation, indicating that vehicles caught within the closure on the M6 northbound in Cheshire are now being directed to pass through the scene via the open lane. However, due to significant barrier damage on Thelwall Viaduct, three out of four lanes remain closed, prolonging the delays and disruptions for commuters.
Motorists are urged to exercise patience and caution while navigating through the affected area, as long queues and congestion are anticipated as a result of the ongoing restrictions. With the lane closures expected to persist well into the morning hours, drivers are advised to plan alternate routes to circumvent the troubled section of the motorway.
In light of the unfolding situation on the M6, emergency services and highway authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of all road users. The collaborative efforts of the various agencies involved in the response highlight the dedication and professionalism of those tasked with managing such critical incidents. As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the lorry crash continues, the focus remains on minimizing disruptions and safeguarding the well-being of those affected by the unfortunate event.