A significant lorry fire on the M25 has led to the closure of the motorway between junctions 27 and 26, causing extensive delays for motorists. The blaze, which erupted overnight, has resulted in long queues and is expected to cause disruption until the morning rush hour.
Incident Details
The fire was first reported at around 3:05 am on the anticlockwise carriageway between junction 27 (Epping) and junction 26 (Waltham Abbey). Emergency services, including Essex Fire and Rescue, were quickly dispatched to the scene. National Highways reported that the motorway was blocked in both directions due to the intensity of the fire.
According to National Highways, the disruption is likely to continue into the morning peak travel period. Fire crews are working to extinguish the blaze and make the vehicle safe before recovery can begin. Specialist recovery will then be required to remove the HGV, followed by inspections of the carriageway and infrastructure for any fire-related damage.
Traffic Impact
Motorists are facing significant delays, with up to four miles of congestion and 45-minute delays on the approach to the closure. The anticlockwise carriageway between junction 28 and junction 27 is also closed due to a separate HGV fire, effectively shutting the M25 from junction 28 to junction 26.
National Highways has advised drivers to allow extra journey time and consider alternative routes. The usual diversion route via Gallows Corner cannot be used due to long-term roadworks, so a specific diversion has been put in place.
Diversion Route
For traffic traveling anticlockwise between junction 28 and junction 26, the following diversion is recommended:
- At junction 28, exit the M25 onto the A12 eastbound.
- Continue along the A12 eastbound towards junction 15.
- Exit the A12 at junction 15 onto the A414 northbound towards Chelmsford.
- At the Widford roundabout, take the first exit and continue on the A414 westbound.
- Continue along the A414 westbound to junction 7 of the M11.
- Take the first exit onto the M11 southbound at junction 7.
- Exit the M11 onto the A406 westbound and continue for approximately 6 miles to the junction with the A10.
- Take the A10 northbound to rejoin the M25 at junction 25.
Second Lorry Fire
A second lorry fire has also been reported on the M25 between junction 27 and junction 26, which has led to a full closure of that section. National Highways confirmed that three lanes remain closed for emergency resurfacing, with a full closure scheduled from approximately 10 pm.
The cause of the initial fire was a collision between two HGVs, resulting in one vehicle catching fire. Essex Police are conducting accident investigation works before the HGVs can be recovered.
Other Incidents
Separately, a fatal crash on Twickenham Bridge (A316) has left one person dead and two women in life-threatening condition. The A316 remains closed in both directions between The Avenue and A307 Kew Road while investigations are carried out.
London bus route 490 has been diverted due to the crash. Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact them on 101, quoting CAD 4652/16Jun.
Advice for Motorists
Drivers are urged to avoid the affected areas if possible and follow diversion signs. National Highways has stated that no reopening time is available for the M25 closures, and the road will remain closed until damage can be assessed and repaired. Motorists should plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
