M62 Westbound Closed: Expect Major Delays Near Huddersfield Following Crash, What You Need To Know

Published on December 9, 2025

Travelers heading towards Huddersfield on the M62 are facing significant delays after a crash forced the closure of two lanes. The incident, which occurred at 9:26am on December 9, has resulted in slow-moving traffic and major congestion along the Westbound stretch of the motorway. The crash happened at Junction 26 (M606 J1), near Chain Bar, and has caused widespread delays, with traffic backed up to J25 at A644 Wakefield Road.

The latest reports from the traffic management system Inrix indicate that the accident has led to two lanes being closed and the slow buildup of traffic. Commuters and travelers on the M62 are advised to plan for extended travel times and consider alternative routes to avoid the disruption.

M62 Crash Causes Disruption for Morning Travelers

The M62 is a vital route for both commuters and tourists traveling through West Yorkshire, linking Manchester, Leeds, and Hull. This morning’s crash has caused significant disruptions, particularly for those traveling towards Huddersfield. The incident has resulted in a halted flow of traffic, forcing drivers to queue for miles as the authorities work to clear the site.

Initial reports suggest that emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, and the West Yorkshire Police and Highways England are managing the incident. Traffic management systems have warned that the slow-moving traffic could persist for several hours as recovery operations continue and investigations are carried out.

What Travelers Need to Know About the M62 Delays

As of the latest updates, the crash on the M62 has caused major delays in both the immediate area and surrounding regions. With two lanes closed between J26 (M606 J1, Chain Bar) and J25 (A644 Wakefield Road), the traffic flow has been severely impacted, leading to significant queuing. The traffic jams stretch back into the Brighouse area, and drivers can expect delays that may last well into the afternoon.

Motorists heading towards Huddersfield or traveling westbound along the M62 should expect the following:

• Two lanes are closed in the Westbound direction, causing a backlog of traffic.
• Major delays of over 30 minutes are likely, especially for those traveling to Huddersfield or nearby towns.
• Significant congestion is expected on routes connecting to the M62, including the M606 and A644.
• Diversions may be in place, so travelers should follow any official traffic updates and signs for alternative routes.

Impact on Business and Leisure Travel

For business travelers, this crash on the M62 could cause serious disruptions to meetings, conferences, or flights from nearby airports. Travelers planning to head to Manchester, Leeds, or Bradford may need to allow extra time for travel or seek alternate routes if possible.

For tourists, especially those heading to Huddersfield for sightseeing or planning to explore the Yorkshire countryside, the delay could significantly impact planned itineraries. The M62 is an important road for travelers heading towards the Peak District or other scenic destinations in Yorkshire. A delayed journey could mean missed opportunities or adjustments to their holiday schedule. In addition, for tourists traveling for special events, such as Christmas markets or holiday-themed attractions in Huddersfield and surrounding areas, it’s best to plan ahead and check for real-time updates.

Travel Tips for Navigating M62 Delays

1. Plan Ahead and Allow Extra Time: If traveling along the M62, especially towards Huddersfield, be prepared for significant delays. Expect travel times to increase by at least 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
2. Check Live Traffic Updates: Stay updated with real-time traffic information via platforms like Inrix, Google Maps, or Highways England, which will provide alternate routes if necessary.
3. Avoid Peak Times: If possible, try to adjust your travel time to avoid peak congestion, particularly in the morning and early afternoon.
4. Use Public Transport Alternatives: For those commuting to Huddersfield or Leeds, consider using train services as the M62 disruption might lead to more prolonged delays on the roads.
5. Prepare for Possible Detours: Diversions will likely be in place, so follow traffic signs closely to avoid further delays and take alternative routes.

What You Can Expect From M62 Recovery Efforts

The recovery efforts from Highways England and West Yorkshire Police are ongoing, and they expect the road to gradually clear as the day progresses. It’s likely that the delays will continue into the afternoon as they clear the site and investigate the cause of the crash. However, drivers should remain cautious and aware of potential secondary delays as the incident is cleared and normal traffic flow resumes.

Conclusion: A Challenging Commute but Hopeful Outlook for the M62

While the crash and subsequent delays on the M62 near Huddersfield are a major disruption for both business travelers and tourists, the recovery efforts are progressing. For those affected by the disruption, the key is to stay informed through traffic management systems, plan alternative routes, and ensure enough time for travel. The M62 remains a crucial route for commuters and tourists alike, so it’s vital to follow updates and expect some delays throughout the day. With patience and planning, travelers can still make the most of their journey despite the temporary setback.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated