Thursday, February 12, 2026 — Leeds Commuters across northern England faced significant delays Thursday after sections of the M62 motorway were partially closed due to flooding caused by sustained rainfall.
National Highways confirmed that standing water near key junctions forced temporary lane closures during the morning rush hour. Recovery vehicles and drainage crews were deployed to clear affected stretches.
Drivers reported long queues and diversion routes adding up to an hour to travel times. Freight operators warned that supply chains could face minor disruptions if conditions persist.
Authorities urged motorists to avoid driving through floodwater and to monitor official traffic updates. Weather forecasts indicate additional showers later in the day, raising the possibility of further congestion.
Transport analysts note that repeated extreme weather events are testing the resilience of Britain’s road network. Calls for infrastructure upgrades, including improved drainage capacity, have grown louder in recent months.
By midday, most affected sections had reopened, though officials cautioned that conditions remain fluid.
