The M6 has been shut in both directions after a lorry fire sparked fears the tinned fruit it was carrying will explode.
A section of the major highway is shut at north Staffordshire following a collision.
An overturned lorry is ablaze on the northbound carriageway, emergency services said.
Highways England said the tins are 'popping' and have the potential to explode sending shrapnel flying at passing vehicles, reports Stoke-on-Trent Live.
Pictures showed an upturned lorry on its side smoldering, with a plume of smoke visible from neighbouring rural areas.
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Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service was this afternoon still attempting to extinguish the fire after it prompted authorities to close the M6 in both directions.
A Highways England spokesman said: "We are unable to open any lanes at this time.
"The vehicle that has caught fire is carrying canned fruit which is popping due to the heat and has the potential to hit any passing vehicles."
Around 5pm, Central Motorway Policing Group was warning of 60-minute delays on the M6 through Staffordshire and Cheshire due to the lorry fire.
A spokesman said: "Please allow extra time for your journey if travelling in the area or consider alternative routes."
Motorists were being diverted along the A500 through Stoke-on-Trent and the A34 as they attempted to get back onto the M6.
