Two lanes are closed southbound, leaving just one lane open during morning rush hour after a crash between junctions 5 (Bolton) and 4 (Walkden).
It is causing long delays of around and congestion on approach with traffic queued for three miles back to junction 6 at Horwich.
The crash has resulted in a ‘significant’ hydraulic fluid spillage which will need resurfacing before the carriageway can be reopened.
National Highways say there are currently delays of around 50 minutes.
Drivers are being advised to allow extra journey time this morning.
More to follow...