The M62 motorway, where hundreds of snowbound drivers had to spend the night in their vehicles, will remain closed indefinitely, police say.
The army was deployed to help rescue motorists, some stuck for more than 12 hours, as winds speeds reached 90mph on the Rakewood Viaduct near Rochdale.
Snow, ice and high winds have left the motorway shut in both directions between junctions 20 and 24.
Volunteers have been taking supplies to those trapped, including a new baby.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed 3,500 vehicles were stuck on the motorway on Thursday evening.
Many were brought off the road, but around 200 vehicles were stuck there overnight.
Police warned people not to travel unless journeys are essential, as the motorway "remains closed indefinitely".
A spokesman said: "We strongly urge motorists to adhere to all road closure signs as ignoring them could lead to further vehicles becoming stranded.
"This in turn could result in emergency services being diverted away from people who genuinely need their help."