The M56 in Cheshire has now been re-opened in both directions after a chemical tanker overturned.
The motorway was closed between junctions 11 and 14 westbound, and 14 and 12 eastbound at around 3.45pm yesterday, Tuesday 20 October, causing traffic mayhem.
Roadworkers cleared significant quantities of a “hazardous but non-explosive substance”, understood to be chemical irritant cresol, from both carriageways, along with mountains of debris from smashed barriers.
Thousands of drivers caught in two-mile tailbacks were told to shut their windows and turn off air conditioning.
Three people were taken to hospital with skin reactions to the chemical, while five others suffering minor injuries were treated at the scene.
The M56 was re-opened in both directions at around 4.30am on Wednesday 21 October.
Highways England Emergency Planning Manager, Phil Stockford, said: “Highways England would like to thank everyone affected by this incident for their patience and understanding whilst we worked to deal with this very difficult and complex situation.”
Main image @PoliceWarr
