Train services running between Manchester Victoria and Preston are blocked due to damage to the overhead electric wires.
According to the National Rail website there has been a loss of power to the wires between Bolton and Salford Crescent.
Northern services between Wigan Wallgate, Southport, Stalybridge and Wigan North Western are affected.
TransPennine Express routes between Lancaster and Manchester Airport are also disrupted.
A replacement bus is running between Bolton, Preston and Manchester Piccadilly.
Read more of today's top stories here
Passengers are also being told they can use their tickets on alternative Avanti West Coast services.
The disruption is expected to last until 10.15am.
A statement on the Northern website said: "Due to damaged overhead wires in the Bolton area, trains are unable to run from Manchester towards Preston.
"Trains are able to run from Preston to Manchester, but these services my still be delayed or cancelled due to the repairs that are being made. Staff are on site but there is no estimate for when repairs will be complete.
"Road transport has been arranged to operate between Bolton and Preston and Manchester and Bolton. These will be operated by Ocean Travel, Matadars and Mayfair.
"Customers can also travel via Wigan for Preston."
