A serious single-vehicle collision has forced the closure of a key stretch of the M2 motorway in Kent on Christmas Eve, causing significant disruption for festive travellers.
Crash Closes London-Bound Carriageway
The incident occurred shortly before 1pm on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, near the Medway services. According to Kent Police, a single car struck the central reservation barrier before coming to rest overturned in a ditch on the London-bound lane.
The force was alerted to the collision at 12:58pm, prompting a major emergency response. Officers from Kent Police were supported at the scene by the South East Coast Ambulance Service and Kent Fire & Rescue Service.
Extended Closure and Major Delays
Due to the severity of the incident, the motorway remains closed westbound between junction J5 for Sittingbourne and J4 for Rainham. National Highways has warned that the road is likely to stay shut throughout the afternoon.
Kent Police stated the closure will remain in place for "an extended period of time" while officers carry out detailed collision investigation work at the scene. This process is described as essential to establish the full circumstances of what happened.
Frustrated motorists caught in the resulting traffic standstill were seen leaving their vehicles and walking along the hard shoulder, as captured in footage from the scene.
Travel Advice for Drivers
The closure is causing substantial delays in the area, with traffic building up on the M2 near Maidstone. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area if possible and to allow extra time for their journeys.
National Highways is managing traffic diversion routes around the closure. Kent Police have thanked the public for their patience while the investigation and recovery operations continue.
