Commuters and hauliers are facing severe disruption on one of the UK's busiest motorways this evening following a serious crash. The incident has caused significant blockages on the M1, leading to extensive delays expected to last for several hours.
Where and When the M1 Disruption Happened
The problems began on the evening of Sunday, 18 January 2026, with emergency services rushing to the scene. The disruption is affecting two key regions: South Yorkshire and Northamptonshire. Specific details about the nature of the collision are still emerging, but it is severe enough to have closed lanes and brought traffic to a standstill.
Current Traffic Conditions and Expected Delays
National Highways and local police have issued warnings to avoid the area if possible. Long queues are building in both directions, with tailbacks stretching for miles. Authorities have stated that delays are likely to persist for at least another two hours from the time of the initial alert, causing major headaches for Sunday night travellers.
This is a developing situation, and traffic cameras show stationary or very slow-moving vehicles at the affected junctions. Drivers are being urged to find alternative routes or allow considerable extra time for their journeys.
Advice for Drivers and Ongoing Updates
Motorists already caught in the congestion are advised to remain patient and follow instructions from traffic officers on the ground. For those planning to use the M1 tonight, checking the latest live traffic updates is essential before setting off.
The incident underscores the fragility of major transport arteries and the widespread impact a single collision can have. Recovery and clear-up operations are underway, but the process is slow due to the complexity of the incident. We will continue to provide the latest information on this breaking story.
