M62 Weather

Motorway 62 (M62) is one of the most important and busiest motorways in England, stretching across the North of England from Liverpool on the west coast to Hull on the east coast. Spanning approximately 107 miles (172 km), the M62 connects major cities including Manchester, Leeds, Huddersfield, Bradford, and Hull, making it a vital corridor for commuters, freight traffic, and long-distance travel across the Pennines.

Due to its elevation and geographic diversity, the M62 is particularly affected by variable weather conditions, especially across the Pennine section between Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. This stretch, including Saddleworth Moor, is known for high winds, sudden fog, heavy rain, and snow in winter months, all of which can cause dangerous driving conditions and delays.

Real-Time M62 Weather Conditions and Road Impact

If you’re traveling along the M62, checking the weather forecast before departure is crucial. Weather can shift dramatically between regions:

• Westbound near Liverpool and Manchester: Typically milder, with rain showers common in autumn and winter.
• Pennine section: Subject to rapid temperature drops, low visibility, and snow accumulation in colder months. The highest motorway point in England (372 metres) is near Junction 22 (Denshaw), and is frequently affected by closures due to snow and ice.
• Eastbound near Leeds, Wakefield, and Hull: Generally flatter terrain but still vulnerable to strong crosswinds and surface water.

Highways England and the Met Office frequently issue weather alerts for the M62, particularly in winter. You may encounter yellow or amber warnings for snow, wind, or rain, especially near the A672 or Rishworth Moor areas.